NewzIntel.com

Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Indicted for Crack Conspiracy and Federal Gun Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS – STEVE BANKS (“BANKS”), age 49, of New Orleans, was indicted on February 14, 2025, for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

    BANKS is charged in Count 1 with possession, with the intent to distribute, 280 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing crack, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).  Count 2 charges BANKS with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).  Count 3 charges BANKS with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A) and 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

    As to the drug trafficking charge in Count 1, BANKS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release.  For Count 2, BANKS faces a maximum sentence of 15 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release.  For Count 3, BANKS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 5 years of supervised release.

    According to the indictment, beginning at a time unknown but prior to September 2024, and continuing to on or about October 21, 2024, BANKS conspired with others to distribute crack in the Eastern District of Louisiana.  On October 21, 2024, BANKS possessed, with the intent to distribute, 280 grams or more of a mixture containing crack, and three guns, including a Zastava Model ZPAP85, 5.56 millimeter semi-automatic rifle, a Glock Model 22, 40 millimeter semi-automatic pistol, with a loaded extended magazine, that had been reported stolen, and a Glock Model 17Gen5, nine millimeter semi-automatic pistol.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

    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.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Media Alert: FBI Offers Reward for Los Lunas Bandit in a Black Hoodie Responsible for a Bank Robbery

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    The FBI and Los Lunas Police Department are asking for the public’s help to identify a man who robbed U.S. Bank at 2421 Main Street SE, Los Lunas, on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at approximately 5 p.m.

    Suspect description:

    • Race: Hispanic
    • Height: approximately 5’10”- 6’0”
    • Build: Thin
    • Clothing: Blue Jeans, Black Hoodie, Sunglasses, Face mask, black shoes

    The suspect entered the bank and passed a demand note to the teller, then verbally demanded more money from a second teller. He was observed leaving northbound from the bank.

    The FBI is offering a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of this suspect. Anyone with information about this robbery is asked to contact the FBI at (505) 889-1300.

    Information about other bank/credit union robbers wanted by the FBI can be found at bankrobbers.fbi.gov. Bank robbery carries a possible prison term of up to 20 years. The use of a gun, other dangerous weapon, toy gun, or hoax bomb device during the commission of a bank robbery can be punishable by a prison term of up to 25 years.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Provincially Funded Specialized Policing Teams Continue to Build Public Safety

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on February 18, 2025

    From July 1 to December 31, 2024, officers from Saskatchewan’s municipal Crime Reduction Teams (CRTs) and Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT) seized 67 firearms, more than 23 kilograms of methamphetamine and nearly 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl from Saskatchewan communities. Officers also charged 89 people with a total of 475 criminal charges.

    “These numbers highlight the tireless efforts of our specialized policing teams in Saskatchewan and the positive impact they are having on our neighbourhoods and communities,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod said. “We are proud to continue supporting provincial law enforcement initiatives, and we are grateful for the work that is done by our municipal police services every day in support of community safety and wellbeing.”

    There are currently three municipal CRT and STRT teams operating out of Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon. CRTs are dedicated to targeting street gangs and prolific offenders while responding to urban and rural crime surges when needed. STRT investigates illegal weapons, drugs and human trafficking cases.

    “Crime is more complex than ever, and we need to be able to respond to the changing needs of our community,” Regina Police Service Chief Farooq Sheikh said. “Collaborating with government and community partners allows us to respond more effectively. This ongoing funding is a great example of how working together we can keep our communities safe.”

    Between July and December 2024, municipal STRTs opened 19 human trafficking files and initiated 21 human trafficking interventions.

    On November 27, 2024, members of the Saskatoon Police CRT investigated a case of suspected drug trafficking, resulting in the seizure of:

    • $69,000 CAD;
    • approximately 16 kilograms of methamphetamine;
    • 470 grams of powdered cocaine;
    • 175 grams of carfentanyl;
    • 4 litres of gamma-hydroxybutyrate;
    • 16 grams of fentanyl; and
    • assorted paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.

    As a result of this investigation, 15 charges were laid related to the possession of controlled substances and the proceeds of crime over $5,000.

    “The Saskatoon Police Service is appreciative of provincial funding and support that allows us to enhance our policing efforts, invest in critical resources, and ensure our officers have the tools they need to keep our neighbourhoods safe,” Saskatoon Police Service Chief Cameron McBride said. “It is not just an investment in law enforcement – it is an investment in the safety and wellbeing of all of our communities.”
     
    On October 24, 2024, during the execution of two search warrants, the Prince Albert Police Service CRT charged two individuals and seized over 1,200 grams of cocaine, more than $39,000 cash, over 1,300 grams of cutting agent, two firearms and other evidence related to drug trafficking.

    “The provincially funded CRTs and STRTs continue to play a critical role in enhancing public safety across the province, including Prince Albert,” Prince Albert Police Service Chief Patrick Nogier said. “These specialized units provide the resources and flexibility needed for officers to focus on 21st century policing initiatives. In Prince Albert, their ongoing efforts have substantially contributed to reducing drug trafficking, removing illegal firearms and disrupting organized crime. This sustained impact reflects the dedication of the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety in supporting proactive policing initiatives that protect our communities and promote long-term public safety.”

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: RCMP Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams Continue to Deliver Safer Communities

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on February 18, 2025

    Provincially funded RCMP Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERTs) continue to deliver significant results in preventing and addressing crime in Saskatchewan. From July to December 2024, RCMP SERT executed 385 arrest warrants, seized over 11.4 kilograms of illicit drugs, 144 firearms and more than $286,000 in cash from Saskatchewan communities.

    “Our partnership with the RCMP plays an important role in reducing crime across Saskatchewan and promoting community safety,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod said. “These teams tackle a wide range of critical issues and we are proud of their accomplishments. The province will continue to work collaboratively with our policing partners to ensure the continued safety and security of Saskatchewan residents.”

    SERT includes the Crime Reduction Teams (CRTs), Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team (WEST), and the Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT), each tackling critical areas of enforcement across the province.

    “These investigational successes demonstrate how SERT and local RCMP detachments work together as the provincial police force to enhance community safety across Saskatchewan,” Saskatchewan RCMP Commanding Officer Assistant Commissioner Rhonda Blackmore said. “As a highly skilled and specialized unit, SERT’s intelligence-led, enforcement-based policing initiatives continue to combat dangerous crime and violent gang activity in the province. We will continue to help make Saskatchewan a safer place for all those who call it home.”

    RCMP STRT is a specialized, intelligence-led enforcement team that investigates weapons, drug and human trafficking cases. From July through December 2024, the STRT opened 17 human trafficking files, executed 37 search warrants and made 31 arrests, seizing over 651,000 packs of tobacco and more than 900 grams of cocaine and laying 81 charges.

    In July 2024, a Saskatchewan Highway Patrol (SHP) Officer conducted an inspection of a semi and trailer near Swift Current and determined the semi’s documentation was inconsistent. As a result of the investigation, the officer located approximately 30 pallets of unstamped tobacco in the trailer. Working collaboratively, RCMP STRT took carriage of the investigation with assistance of the Swift Current Rural RCMP detachment. STRT determined the truck was carrying about 8.75 million unstamped cigarettes, which SHP indicated was one of the largest tobacco seizures in their history. 

    RCMP CRT responds to crime surges in rural areas, targeting prolific offenders and street gangs in Saskatchewan. From July through December 2024, the CRT executed 288 arrest warrants, laid over 400 charges, seized more than 8.6 kg of illicit drugs and made 352 arrests.

    In October 2024, North Battleford RCMP CRT- Gang Task Force executed search warrants at two residences as part of an ongoing drug trafficking investigation. At the residences, officers located and seized a loaded handgun, a rifle, approximately 81 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 58 grams of crack cocaine, ammunition, a sum of cash and drug trafficking paraphernalia. Continued investigation led officers to arrest three individuals and charge two with possession for the purpose of trafficking, among other charges.

    RCMP WEST targets high-profile offenders who are a significant threat to public safety, such as gang members and violent offenders with outstanding warrants. The RCMP operates one WEST team out of Saskatoon and Meadow Lake and another out of Prince Albert. From July through December 2024, WEST executed 97 arrest warrants and made 82 arrests.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Woman charged in connection with 1978 death of child

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives from the Met’s Cold Case Homicide Team have charged a woman following the death of a five-year-old girl in 1978.

    Janice Nix, 66 (26.08.58), of Rodenhurst Road, SW4, was arrested and charged with manslaughter on Tuesday, 18 February, following the death of Andrea Bernard.

    Andrea and Nix were known to each other

    Nix was also charged with child cruelty in relation to offences towards another child, who was aged eight at the time.

    She is due to appear before Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 19 February.

    It is reported Andrea was assaulted at an address in Ashley Road, Thornton Heath on 6 June 1978 and was hospitalised.

    She was initially treated at hospital in Croydon before being transferred to a specialist burns unit in East Grinstead.

    Tragically, as a result of the injuries Andrea sustained, she died on 13 July 1978.

    The offences were reported in September 2022 and an investigation was launched.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alleged serial arsonist faces federal charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 36-year-old McAllen resident has been charged with arson and possession of a destructive device, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Daniel Eduardo Rivera is expected to make an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge J. Scott Hacker at 9:00 a.m.

    According to the criminal complaint, Rivera has allegedly been targeting an individual since 2022 by setting multiple fires to the victim’s residence and vehicles.

    The charges allege that in November 2022 at approximately 2:03 a.m., fire department officials responded to the victim’s residence due to a fire coming from a storage shed. They extinguished it, but authorities later determined it to be incendiary in nature, according to the complaint.  

    At approximately 1:10 p.m. that same day, the fire department was allegedly dispatched to the victim’s house for a second time where they discovered the  porch to be fully engulfed with fire seeping into the home. The charges allege they were again able to extinguish it but not before it had caused significant damage to the home. They also found a Molotov cocktail at the scene, according to the complaint.  

    According to the victim, Rivera had allegedly confronted him and threatened to kill his family at night and burn the victim’s house down.

    The complaint further alleges that in May 2024, fire officials responded to a vehicle fire in McAllen. It has already been extinguished, but authorities allegedly determined another Molotov cocktail was used in an attempt to set the car ablaze. The investigation links Rivera to that incident, according to the charges.

    If convicted, Rivera faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the arson and a maximum of 10 for possession of a destructive device.  

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and explosives is conducting the investigation with the assistance of the McAllen Fire Marshal’s Office, Fire and Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lee Fry and Devin V. Walker are prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prince Albert — Prince Albert RCMP respond to armed robbery of a vehicle

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On February 6, 2025 at approximately 9:56 p.m., Prince Albert RCMP received a report of an armed robbery near a business on Highway 2 and 264 in the Elk Ridge area.

    Investigation determined a female approached a vehicle, threatened the driver and directed them to drive to a specified location.

    The incident was reported to Prince Albert RCMP and officers located the vehicle at a business in Northside, SK and arrested the suspect at the scene. The driver did not report physical injuries to police.

    As a result of continued investigation, Saskatchewan RCMP arrested 20-year-old Jade Grieves.

    Jade Grieves from Nipawin is charged with:

    • one count, robbery – with other offensive weapon, Section 344(1)(b), Criminal Code;
    • three counts, fail to comply with a probation order, Section 733.1(1), Criminal Code.

    Jade Grieves appeared in Prince Albert Provincial Court on February 7 and February 10, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Swift Current  — Saskatchewan RCMP seize cocaine, charge female in Swift Current

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    An adult female is facing a drug trafficking charge after Saskatchewan RCMP executed a search warrant and seized cocaine in Swift Current, SK.

    On February 12, 2025, officers with Saskatchewan RCMP’s Swift Current Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT), Swift Current Municipal and Rural Detachments, and Police Dog Services (PDS) executed a search warrant at a residence on the 1100 block of Winnie Street East as part of an ongoing drug trafficking investigation.

    An adult female was arrested at the residence. RCMP officers located and arrested two adult females in a vehicle at a business on 6th Avenue Northeast and South Service Road.

    While searching the residence and vehicle, officers located and seized approximately 109 grams of powder cocaine, a small amount of methamphetamine and other evidence of drug trafficking.

    As a result of investigation, 31-year-old Lacey Mandel of Swift Current, SK is charged with one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

    The two other females were released without charges.

    Lacey Mandel will make her first appearance in Swift Current Provincial Court on March 12, 2024.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Romanian Police Serve Dozens of Warrants Following Parallel Investigation with the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    Romanian law enforcement officials conducted dozens of warrants this week in the Romanian counties of Brasov and Mures, following a parallel investigation with the FBI.

    The search warrants targeted locations suspected to have ties to an organized crime group engaged in ATM skimming in the United States and money laundering.

    During the operation, Romanian officials also detained several individuals for questioning and seized large amounts of cash, several vehicles, as well as skimming devices and associated instruments.

    “This group profited handsomely by targeting vulnerable EBT recipients who rely on funds to support their families and callously deprived victims of their basic needs,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “This investigation is yet another example of FBI Agents working closely with our foreign partners to identify, disrupt and dismantle transnational criminal enterprises who enter the United States illegally for the sole purpose of conducting criminal activity.”

    Today’s operation is the culmination of a two-year investigation conducted by the FBI and Romanian authorities to dismantle the command and control of the Dorneanu Organized Crime Group: a transnational criminal organization whose members conduct ATM skimming operations in the United States and then launder the profits back to Romania.

    “These individuals targeted and stole from our community’s most vulnerable citizens,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “Working together with our local, federal, and international partners, we can and will continue to root out and punish transnational criminal organizations and protect the less fortunate and American taxpayers.”

    The subjects targeted in this investigation worked directly for, or were associated with, Mihai Dorneanu—the alleged leader of the Dorneanu Organized Crime Group. Five members of this organization were arrested by the FBI and convicted in the Central District of California with violations including conspiracy, bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and visa fraud. Four others were arrested for state violations by local authorities in Ventura and San Bernardino Counties. As a result of ongoing efforts in this case to disrupt ATM skimmers in Southern California, law enforcement recovered over 8,500 stolen credit card numbers belonging to victims in the United States.

    The five federal defendants include the following:

    • Marius Oprea was sentenced to six years and three months in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Press Release
    • Dan Eugen Boar was sentenced to four years in federal prison.
    • Radu-Marian Moldovan was sentenced to time served in federal prison.
    • Attila Ravasz was sentenced to one year and three months in federal prison.
    • Andrei-Raul Cirilescu was sentenced to two years and four months in federal prison.

    A statement announcing the operation was also issued by Romanian authorities (translation available upon visiting page).

    The domestic investigation was conducted jointly by the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office; the San Bernardino County Human Services Fraud Investigation Unit; the Diplomatic Security Service; the Los Angeles Police Department; and the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department. The federal defendants were prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles.

    The FBI’s foreign partners include the Brașov Brigade for Combatting Organized Crime; prosecutors with the Directorate for the Investigation of Organized Crime and Terrorism—Brașov Territorial Service; and Europol.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cochrane — Cochrane RCMP arrest and charge two prolific offenders

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    During Dec. of 2024, the Cochrane RCMP Crime Reduction Unit with assistance from the Southern Alberta General Investigation Section, monitored the release of two prolific offenders. Within just a few days after release, both offenders committed an Armed Robbery and stole a motor vehicle. RCMP soon located one offender in a stolen vehicle on Stoney Nakoda who then dangerously fled from Police. Police tracked the offender to a residence in Calgary and with assistance from Calgary Police Service, the offender was successfully arrested without incident.

    Later in the same month, Canmore RCMP responded to a break and enter where the second offender fled from police in a stolen vehicle. The police later located the offender on foot but he fled. The offender deployed bear spray at the officer but with assistance from the RCMP Police Dog Services, the offender was quickly apprehended. The officer was not injured.

    As a result of the investigation, the RCMP recovered a stolen shotgun and four stolen vehicles. The two offenders were charged with a combined total of 27 Criminal Code offences.

    A 26-year-old individual, a resident of Stoney Nakoda First Nation, was charged with:

    • Robbery with a Firearm;
    • Flight from Police;
    • Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle;
    • Theft of a Motor Vehicle;
    • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000;
    • Three counts of Uttering Threats; and
    • Five Counts of Failing to Comply with a Probation Order.

    A 28-year-old individual, a resident of Stoney Nakoda First Nation, was charged with:

    • Robbery with a Firearm;
    • Pointing a Firearm;
    • Flight from Police;
    • Assault with a Weapon;
    • Assault on a Police Officer;
    • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000;
    • Theft of a Motor Vehicle;
    • Three counts of Uttering Threats
    • Two counts of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm; and
    • Two counts of Possession of a Firearm Contrary to an Order.

    Inspector Dave Brunner of the Cochrane RCMP said “We not only patrol the streets, but also patrol the patterns. We are here to identify, monitor, arrest and break the cycle of prolific offenders.” Both offenders have been remanded into custody and await court appearances.

    If you have any information regarding a crime, please contact Cochrane RCMP at 403-851-8000 or your area of jurisdiction. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Airdrie — Airdrie RCMP successful in crime reduction operation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Between the dates of Oct. 1, 2024 and Oct. 11, 2024, the Airdrie RCMP Crime Reduction Unit, with the assistance of the Airdrie General Investigations Section and Special Investigations Units, conducted an enhanced crime reduction operation. Strategies included targeting high crime hot spots, as well as individuals remaining on outstanding arrest warrants in the city of Airdrie and Rocky View County.

    As a result of this proactive operation, the following actions were completed:

    • 30 warrants were executed
    • 39 criminal code charges laid
    • 6 firearms and 1 military ordinance were seized
    • 2 stolen vehicles were recovered
    • 4 oz of a controlled substance, Cocaine, was seized

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Elk Point — Alberta RCMP arrest repeat offender in possession of stolen vehicle and firearms

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Jan. 8, 2025, units from the Alberta RCMP were attempting to locate a suspect wanted for a series of serious charges out of Cold Lake, Alta. when they located him at a rural residence near Elk Point, Alta. Prior to RCMP intervention, the suspect and two other individuals were observed departing in a motor vehicle. Several units, including the Alberta RCMP Emergency Response Team, monitored the suspect unit his vehicle was safely disabled.

    Checks on the vehicle the suspect was operating revealed that it was stolen. A search of the vehicle revealed several firearms recently stolen out of Vermillion, Alta. Additionally, a second stolen vehicle and two stolen trailers were located at the property that the suspect was observed leaving.

    RCMP have charged a 41-year-old individual, a resident of Cold Lake, with:

    • Flight from police;
    • Possession of firearm in motor vehicle (x6);
    • Unauthorized possession of a firearm;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.

    The 41-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set for Jan. 21, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Bonnyville, Alta.

    RCMP have charged a 33-year-old individual, a resident of MD of Bonnyville, with:

    • Possession of firearm in motor vehicle (x6);
    • Unauthorized possession of a firearm;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000;
    • Fail to comply with release conditions (x4);
    • Possession of a firearm contrary to order (x3).

    The 33-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set for Jan. 13, 2025, at the Albert Court of Justice in Lac la Biche, Alta.

    A youth was also charged with multiple offences and released for a future court date.

    “This complex investigation saw the close coordination of multiple RCMP Units in Eastern Alberta including Bonnyville, Elk Point, Cold Lake, and our District GIS and Crime Reduction Teams. “says Sarah Parke Detachment Commander Bonnyville RCMP,” Ultimately with the close coordination of these Units our Emergency Response Team was able to safety disable the vehicle driven by this potentially dangerous suspect minimizing his risk to the public.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Calgary — Alberta RCMP and provincial partners track down top offenders

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    As part of a new RCMP-led data sharing initiative, Alberta RCMP, Calgary Police Service, and Alberta Sheriffs worked together in a Joint Forces Operation (JFO), targeting the top priority offenders in the province, through a warrant roundup.

    The decisions to implement the initiative came following the recognition by Alberta RCMP that all law enforcement agencies in Alberta were ranking priority offenders in different ways. Understanding that criminals operate in various jurisdictions, it was determined that a province wide-model to identify and prioritize offenders was required.

    Through the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police, all police forces in Alberta have entered into an information sharing agreement that will allow for intelligence and statistical data to be routinely shared. This sharing enables police agencies in Alberta to have a true understanding of the priority offenders that are causing the most harm, not only within individual policing jurisdictions, but across the province. This shared data allows police agencies to properly prioritize and take enforcement action on the most harmful offenders, ensuring the safety of all Albertans.

    Alberta RCMP ranks the tens of thousands of unique offenders in Alberta based on the harm they cause in individual communities. To determine the harm caused by these individuals, the Alberta RCMP Strategic Analysis and Research Unit developed a matrix to determine which offenders were causing the most harm in Alberta. This determination is done using the uniform Crime Severity Index scoring that is typically applied to communities by Statistics Canada and applying it to individual’s offenders.

    Alberta RCMP, with the assistance of Calgary Police Service Business Analytics, Intelligence & Reporting Section, and policing partners across the province, are now able to collect, translate, and disseminate the offender data of all police agencies in the province to form a clear province-wide priority offender list.

    From Nov. 17 to Nov. 30, 2024, the Joint Forces warrant apprehension team hit the streets of Calgary and Southern Alberta, which resulted in the following:

    • 88 arrests
    • 177 warrants executed; 44 for Provincial offences and 133 For Criminal Code offences, representing a total of 306 charges.

    RCMP Province wide executed 1005 warrants associated to 948 different offenders. The individuals arrested during the JFO had warrants from all types of crime, ranging from repeat petty thefts, to arsons, drug trafficking, robbery, and sexual offenses.

    To highlight some of the offenders who were arrested:

    • A 55-year-old male resident of Calgary, who had four warrants for his arrest with over 42 charges associated mostly related to property crime, was arrested. In the previous 18 months he has been linked to a number of offences such as robbery, drug possession and theft of motor vehicle.
    • A 42-year-old male resident of Airdrie, who had seven warrants for his arrest with a total of 27 charges for property crime and fail to comply with court ordered conditions, was arrested. In the previous 18 months he has been associated to files related to sexual interference, sexual assault, and a variety of property crime and drug trafficking offences.
    • A 34-year-old male resident of Calgary, who had five warrants for his arrest with a total of 32 charges for failing to comply with court orders, was arrested. He has a history of being involved in trafficking drugs, assault with a weapon, as well as a variety of property crime offences.
    • A 28-year-old female resident of Cold Lake had one warrant for her arrest for driving offences. She has had 50 interactions with police in the past 18 months, including for robbery, assault with a weapon, drug trafficking and firearms possession investigations.

    “Law Enforcement needs to work together to ensure that jurisdictional borders do not impede our ability to catch the criminals causing the most harm across Alberta,” said Supt. Mike McCauley of the Alberta RCMP. “A small percentage of criminals cause a significant amount of harm across the province, and by using data to drive our work like we do in operations like these, the impact is incredible. “

    “Thanks to strong interagency collaboration and information sharing, there are now fewer dangerous offenders on Alberta’s streets and in our communities,” said Supt. Mike Letourneau of the Alberta Sheriffs. “The Alberta Sheriffs are proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners as we pursue our shared objective of keeping Albertans safe.”

    “We are committed to working collaboratively with our law enforcement partners across the province to keep Calgarians safe,” says Superintendent Jeff Bell of the CPS Criminal Operations & Intelligence Division. “Apprehending offenders that have committed crimes across our province is a critical step in maintaining public safety and preventing further victimization. We are proud to have been a partner in this important initiative.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Millbrook — Millbrook RCMP charge man after stabbing

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Millbrook RCMP has charged a man with Attempt to Commit Murder and Assault with a Weapon after a stabbing in Millbrook.

    On February 16 at approximately 1:45 am, RCMP and EHS responded to a 911 call from a residence on Birch Bark Rd. Responding officers located a 31-year-old man with multiple injuries inside the home, and learned that he had been stabbed by another man, who was known to him. The injured man was transported to hospital.

    Officers safely arrested the suspect who was located in another room in the home.

    A search warrant was executed at this residence to locate and seize further evidence. RCMP Forensic Identification Section is supporting the ongoing investigation.

    Brenton Joseph Arsenault, 29, of Brookfield, has been charged with:

    • Attempt to Commit Murder
    • Assault with a Weapon

    Arsenault was held in custody and will have a first court appearance at Truro Provincial Court on February 18, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Restricting German civil servants’ fundamental rights in connection with opposition parties – E-000361/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000361/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomasz Froelich (ESN)

    According to an internal German Federal Police directive dated 7 January 2025, based on an ordinance of 29 August 2024 issued by the German Federal Minister for the Interior, Nancy Faeser (SPD), federal police officers who are members of Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) or who actively support that party, in particular by standing for election, face disciplinary consequences, including dismissal. Activities within the AfD may be classed as ‘misconduct’ and constitute grounds for dismissal. The AfD has not been declared unconstitutional by the Federal Constitutional Court under Article 21(4) of the Basic Law and is protected by political-party privilege. There cannot possibly be disciplinary consequences for a civil servant by dint of being a member of it. Testing an individual civil servant’s constitutional loyalty requires an individualised appraisal.[1]

    • 1.In the Commission’s view, does the action taken by Minister Faeser, i.e. federal police officers should be dismissed without an individualised assessment of their constitutional loyalty and solely by dint of their membership of or support for the AfD, jeopardise the fundamental rights of those civil servants?
    • 2.Is the Commission aware of similar cases where such action has been taken in other Member States? If so, which ones?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to take account of the action taken by the Federal Minister for the Interior in its report on the rule of law in Germany?

    Submitted: 27.1.2025

    • [1] Josef Franz Lindner, ‘Zur Parteimitgliedschaft von Beamten’, Verfassungsblog.de, 15 February 2019.
    Last updated: 18 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing man in Cheung Sha Wan (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appeal for information on missing man in Cheung Sha Wan (with photo)
    Appeal for information on missing man in Cheung Sha Wan (with photo)
    ********************************************************************

         Police today (February 18) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Cheung Sha Wan.      LAU Kok-yim, aged 92, went missing after he was last seen at a hospital on Wing Hong Street, Cheung Sha Wan on February 14 night. His family made a report to Police yesterday (February 17).      He is about 1.75 metres tall, 60 kilograms in weight and of thin build. He has a sharp face with yellow complexion and short white hair. He was last seen wearing a blue jacket, black trousers, black shoes and carrying a light brown bag.      Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Person Unit of Kowloon West on 3661 8036 or 9020 6542 or email to rmpu-kw@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 18, 2025Issued at HKT 16:37

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing boy in Kwai Chung located

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Missing boy in Kwai Chung located
    Missing boy in Kwai Chung located
    *********************************

          A boy who went missing in Kwai Chung has been located.      Ma Kin-hei, aged 14, went missing after he was last seen at Kwai Chung Interchange on February 9 morning. His family made a report to Police.     The boy was located on Tin Yan Road, Tin Shui Wai yesterday (February 17) afternoon. He sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 18, 2025Issued at HKT 19:04

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Defense Ministry Spokesperson’s Remarks on Recent Media Queries Concerning the Military on February 14, 2025 2025-02-18 On the afternoon of February 14, 2025, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang answered recent media queries concerning the military.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense 2

      Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers recent media queries concerning the military on Feburary 14, 2025. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

      (The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)

    On the afternoon of February 14, 2025, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang answered recent media queries concerning the military.

    Journalist: Recently, a landslide occurred in Junlian County, Yibin City, Sichuan Province. Officers and soldiers of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and the People’s Armed Police Force (PAP) immediately engaged in disaster relief efforts. Please tell us more about it.

    Zhang Xiaogang: A landslide recently occurred in Junlian County, Yibin City, Sichuan Province. A disaster is an order for action. The PLA and PAP resolutely acted on President Xi’s important instructions on emergency rescue and disaster relief. They responded swiftly, stepped forward and conducted rescue operations with all-out efforts. So far, a total of 326 personnel have been deployed to a range of tasks, including search and rescue, relocation of affected residents, road clearance, hidden-danger assessment, and supplies transportation. They have also assisted the local government in evacuating and relocating over 230 people. The Chinese military remains steadfast in following the instructions of the Party Central Committee, the Central Military Commission and President Xi. We faithfully uphold the fundamental purpose of serving the people wholeheartedly and stay ready to support local disaster relief efforts at any time. We are committed to safeguarding the lives and property of the people and fulfilling all tasks entrusted by the Party and the people.

    Journalist: It is reported that President Xi Jinping, chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), recently signed an order to issue the revised Regulations on Scientific Research Related to Military Equipment. Please provide us with more information about this.

    Zhang Xiaogang: The revised Regulations on Scientific Research and Development Related to Military Equipment has five features. First, it takes the generation of combat capability as the sole criteria, and systematically reformed the processes and procudures for overall planning, project approval, and process management related to scientific research and development (R&D) of military equipment. Second, it requires advanced management concepts to be applied to both organs responsible for equipment R&D planning and units undertaking specific projects. This aims to improve the capacity for independent innovation, and provide more sources of growth in new quality combat capabilities. Third, it optimizes the classification and approval models for equipment pre-research, equipment R&D and production, and comprehensive equipment research, providing flexible and practical options for project management. Fourth, it systematically clarifies the principles and specific measures for quality control, cost management, acceptance and evaluation, and outcome management, in support of high-quality development of equipment R&D. Fifth, it establishes a comprehensive framework for the supervision and regulation of equipment R&D. It also specifies industry-specific supervision methods, inspection approaches and rectification measures. The Regulations will help enable higher quality and efficiency and stronger vitality of innovation in equipment R&D, so as to better support combat preparedness.

    Journalist: The PLA Navy recently sent a task group to Pakistan to attend the multinational maritime exercise AMAN 2025. This is the first international joint exercise the Chinese military has participated in this year. Please further brief us on the exercise.

    Zhang Xiaogang: At the invitation of the Pakistani military, a PLAN task group comprising of the guided-missile destroyer PLANS Baotou and the comprehensive supply ship PLANS Gaoyouhu participated in the multinational maritime exercise AMAN 2025 from February 6 to 11. During the onshore phase of the exercise, the task group and other participating naval forces held planning conferences, professional exchanges and open ship events. During the maritime phase, drills were conducted on joint counter-piracy operations, search and rescue and air defense. The exercise facilitated exchanges between the PLAN and other participating naval troops, and demonstrated a shared commitment to maritime security. The Chinese military will continue to live up to our international responsibilities and obligations, and contribute to world peace and stability with concrete actions.

    Journalist: The US Indo-Pacific Command recently said that the Typhon mid-range missile system had been relocated from the Laoag airfield to another location on the island of Luzon, and that the relocation, however, was not an indication that the batteries would be permanently deployed in the Philippines. The Philippine side said that it would return the Typhon system to the US so long as China stops claiming its territory, harassing its fishermen and attacking its ships. May I have your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: The Chinese side has made clear multiple times our firm opposition against the US deployment of the mid-range missile system in the Philippines. The Typhon missile system is a strategic asset and an offensive weapon. The Philippine side has repeatedly gone back on its words and brought in the system to cater to the US side. Such decision would only place its national security and defense in the hands of others, and lead to geopolitical confrontation and risks of arms race in the region. It’s like holding a candle to the devil and playing the jackal to the tiger.

    As we all know, the territory of the Philippines is defined by a series of international treaties, including the 1898 Treaty of Peace between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Spain, the 1900 Treaty between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Spain for Cession of Outlying Islands of the Philippines, and the 1930 Convention between His Majesty in Respect of the United Kingdom and the President of the United States regarding the Boundary between the State of North Borneo and the Philippine Archipelago. China’s Nansha Qundao and Huangyan Dao fall outside the Philippine territory. It’s legitimate, lawful and beyond reproach for the Chinese side to conduct law-enforcement activities in relevant waters.

    By using the deployment of Typhon as a bargaining chip on the South China Sea issue, the Philippine side is selling out its own national security, putting the well-being of its people and regional peace and stability at grave risk. Such behavior is ridiculous and dangerous. We require the Philippine side to recognize the high sensitivity and severe consequences of this issue, remove the Typhon missile system as soon as possible to honor its open promises, and return to the right track of dialogue and consultations at an early date. The Chinese side will continue to take necessary measures to resolutely counter provocations and infringements and safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

    Journalist: It was reported that the US confirmed that Article V of the US-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security applies to China’s Diaoyu Dao during a phone call between Japanese Minister of Defense and US Secretary of Defense. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China’s inherent territory. No matter what the US and Japan say or do, they can neither change this fact nor shake China’s resolve to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the US and Japan is a product of the Cold War. Military and security cooperation between the US and Japan should not target any third party, let alone undermine regional development. 2025 marks the 80th year of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. We hope the Japanese side will take lessons from history, demonstrate its determination to pursue peaceful development through concrete actions, and make more efforts to enhance mutual trust between countries and promote regional peace and stability.

    Journalist: It is reported that after being sworn in as the new US Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth made clear that the US would restore the warrior ethos and work with allies and partners to deter aggression in the Asia-Pacific by China. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: We firmly oppose the groundless accusation made by the US side. China pursues a national defense policy that is defensive in nature and a military strategy of active defense. The Chinese military is a staunch force for peace. As a peace-loving nation, China never engages in aggression or expansion. But we will never give up our legitimate rights and interests, and will take firm countermeasures against threats and challenges.

    I want to emphasize that major country competition should not be the underlying logic of the times. A steady, sound and sustained China-US diplomatic and defense relationship serves the common interests of the two countries and meets the general expectation of the international community. Standing at a new starting point, we hope the US will work with China on the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, to deepen state-to-state and military-to-military exchanges and cooperation, so as to inject certainty and positive energy into the world.

    Journalist: It is reported that US and Japanese leaders met with each other and issued a joint statement, which emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and opposed any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion. Recently, the destroyer USS Johnson and the oceanographic survey ship USNS Bowditch transited the Taiwan Strait. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: The relevant contents in the US-Japan Joint Leaders’ Statement grossly interfered in China’s internal affairs and made unfounded smears and accusations against China. The Chinese side is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposed to that. Regarding the passage of the US vessels through the Taiwan Strait, the PLA Eastern Theater Command has already made a response.

    I want to point out that Taiwan is China’s Taiwan. Any military provocation of the US will not change this fact. On the contrary, such US actions expose its hypocrisy and double standard to the international community, and bolster the resolve and will of the Chinese people to safeguard our national sovereignty and realize national reunification. The PLA will continue to strengthen combat readiness, resolutely fight against secession and interference, and firmly safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Concern for welfare – Douglas Daly

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police Force have located the body of the 89-year-old male who was reported missing yesterday afternoon in Douglas Daly.

    Around 6:05pm, police located the man deceased a short distance from where his vehicle was found abandoned and washed off the Stray Creek Crossing on Fleming Road.

    The circumstances are believed to be non-suspicious.

    The Search and Rescue Section and Daly River police would like to thank the members of the community for their assistance in this operation and our thoughts are with the family of the man.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Severn Trent bring exciting job opportunities to Coventry

    Source: City of Coventry

    It’s estimated that there’s some 1.5m people above the age of 16 currently unemployed across the UK, with many of those across the Midlands.

    Severn Trent’s commitment to change that statistic is seeing it create opportunities to connect people to jobs in Coventry.

    Working with Coventry City Council, the company is bringing back it’s Big Boost for Coventry – where it promises jobs, skills, training and work opportunities for those in the city and beyond.

    The company is to be joined by employers such as British Army, EON, National Gas, Warwickshire Police, NHS and more – following the success of its first event that saw over 500 people through the doors at the Transport Museum.

    The event, that’s free to enter and will take place on Thursday 6th March 2025 – between 10am and 2pm at Coventry Transport Museum.

    As well as employers with live jobs, there’s free cv workshops, virtual reality interview practice, and other employability training and other support available, such as help with water bills and cost of living support.

    Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “It’s fantastic that Severn Trent want to bring another jobs fair back to the city. The last event was a huge success, so we hope to build on that for 2025. We want to make sure our residents are equipped with the right skills to go onto pursue future careers in and around the city. The jobs fair is definitely something that will help support this. 

    “I encourage anyone looking for support with interview skills, CV writing, confidence building or seeking work opportunities to go along.”

    To support the event the museum is also offering a massively discounted day rate to the museum of only £5 for anyone who attends. Where it’s usually £15 for the year.

    Adam Stevens, Societal Programme Officer, at Severn Trent said: “Our first event in Coventry was hugely successful, so we had to plan and bring back another session quickly to bring more opportunities to the city. We’re a big employer in Coventry and know our responsibility in creating opportunities and connecting people to them. We want people to come out and look at what jobs are available, as well as other opportunities like apprenticeships and free employability training.

    “We’re looking forward to seeing many local people there taking advantage of some of the biggest employers together in one room to help boost employment in Coventry and make use of our free training sessions can get people job ready.”

    The event builds on the company’s work in region, where it first launched a 10-year plan to support 100,000 people who are at risk of water poverty by tackling one of the underlying causes of poverty.  

    The company has been partnering with local schools, hosting jobs fairs, as well as delivering mentoring to prison leavers – in its commitment to help support those from marginalised groups with employment opportunities.

    To register your interest to this free event, visit Severn Trent’s Big Boost for Cov Jobs Fair Tickets, Thu 6 Mar 2025 at 10:00 | Eventbrite

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor urges more businesses to donate old IT equipment and help digitally excluded Londoners get online

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Get Online London has reached more than 100,000 digitally excluded Londoners, thanks to 1,106 Digital Inclusion Hubs across the capital
    • Donating mobile phones, laptops and other IT equipment helps provide digital access for more Londoners
    • Mayor has donated over 700 City Hall devices and is calling on other organisations to follow suit

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today called on businesses and public bodies to help more digitally excluded Londoners get online by donating unwanted mobile phones, laptops and other IT equipment.

    More than 100,000 Londoners have already been supported by Get Online London, the capital’s first ever digital inclusion service set up by City Hall and the London Office of Technology and Innovation (LOTI), to ensure every Londoner has access to essential digital connectivity, skills, devices and support.

    Digital exclusion is a major issue for many Londoners, impacting people’s health, education and work outcomes. It can prevent people from fully participating in society as many essential services linked to vital areas including education, employment and social interaction are increasingly reliant on online platforms.

    Around two million residents across the capital still have very limited digital engagement, such as lacking their own device or facing difficulties with online services. Over 250,000 are completely offline, with no internet access at all. [1]

    Get Online London helps those across the capital who are digitally excluded by giving people the tools and knowledge to get online and participate in the digital world.

    Working in partnership with the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation and the LOTI, Get Online London has established 1,106 Digital Inclusion Hubs across every borough in London, providing free internet for Londoners who couldn’t otherwise afford to get online, which have so far distributed 88,500 data packages

    Working in partnership with the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation and the LOTI, Get Online London has established a National Databank [2] across every borough, providing free internet for Londoners who couldn’t otherwise afford to get online, which have so far distributed 88,500 data packages.

    The innovative service ensures donated digital equipment is securely and sustainably refurbished, so it can then be given to those in need. As well as providing 7,119 devices to get Londoners online, it is helping organisations that donate to reduce e-waste and boost London’s progress towards achieving net zero.

    The Mayor has recently signed an agreement to donate more than 700 City Hall devices and he is calling on businesses and public bodies to join City Hall, the Metropolitan Police Service, Thames Water, London Councils and many London borough councils already contributing to Get Online London.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Get Online London has been a huge success and I’m really proud that we’ve now reached more than 100,000 Londoners, working alongside the London Office of Technology and Innovation and the Good Things Foundation to tackle digital exclusion.

    “Demand for devices still far outstrips supply, so we must do more. That’s why I’m calling on businesses and public bodies to donate mobile phones, laptops and other IT kit to help us fix the digital divide and ensure access for all. Devices an organisation no longer needs can be essential lifelines for others, and together we can build a better and fairer London for everyone.”

    Genta Hajri, Digital Innovation Delivery Lead, London Office of Technology and Innovation, said: “The ability to get online is such a basic and increasingly vital part of being fully included in society: to access education, work, look after our health and wellbeing and to connect with friends and family.

    “We’re delighted by the progress that’s already been achieved with Get Online London and encourage organisations from the public and private sectors to support this work to ensure no Londoner is left behind.”

    Helen Milner OBE, Group Chief Executive Officer, Good Things Foundation, said: “Thousands of Londoners are still offline. They are unable to participate in everyday life – from accessing essential services, to finding work and connecting with their loved ones – leaving them feeling disconnected from the digital world we live in.

    “Businesses who donate their disused devices and equipment to Get Online London, London’s Digital Inclusion Service, are helping to tackle digital exclusion with zero tech waste and giving people the opportunity to get online. Help solve one of today’s biggest problems, and together we can fix the digital divide for good.”  

    To find out more about how to donate devices and support Get Online London, please visit: https://loti.london/get-online-london/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor proposes record-breaking £1.16bn investment in the Metropolitan Police

    Source: Mayor of London

    • In a draft budget published last night the Mayor proposed an additional £83m investment – £10m from City Hall and £73m from central Government – to go into policing
    • The £83m additional builds on the extra £237m already announced for next year to give a record £320m increase
    • In total, this means there will be £1.159 billion Mayoral funding policing in 2025-26. It is the largest figure ever spent on policing in the capital, the biggest year-on-year settlement ever proposed for the Met and more than double the previous Mayor’s final budget for policing
    • It comes as the number of homicides, young people being injured with knives and burglary are all down since Sadiq was first elected in 2016

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today proposed an extra £83m million – £10m from City Hall and £73million from central government – for policing in his final draft budget bringing total Mayoral investment in the Met to an historic £1.159 billion for the next year.

    It means there is an additional £320m funding for the Metropolitan Police compared to the current year’s budget, an unprecedented increase. This additional investment will keep hundreds of Metropolitan Police officer posts and reduce expected cuts to key specialist police units.

    Last November’s budget submission from the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) assumed that by 31 March 2026, the Met would need to reduce the number of officers by 1,899 to 30,553 due to chronic underfunding by the previous government, which reduced annual core funding for policing in the capital by £1.1 billion in real terms.

    The Mayor has confirmed that some of the cuts the Metropolitan Police had originally proposed in November will be substantially scaled back due to this proposed investment, which will be used to fund additional police officers, key police staff and the equipment they need to carry out their roles.  Final decisions on how to use the extra investment will be considered by MOPAC and the Met, with plans announced next month. It is expected that hundreds of officer posts will be kept in place due to this investment, on top of the 420 officers funded in last month’s Provisional Policing Settlement.

    There is still much more to do to tackle crime in London and this proposed investment by the Mayor and the Government will help the Met to continue to invest in tacking crime locally and build on the progress being made. The number of homicides, young people being injured with knives, and burglary are all down since Sadiq was first elected in 2016. Homicides are also falling – there were fewer homicides of people under-25 in London last year than any year since 2003. The number of teenage homicides in London last year was at its lowest total since 2012.

    In total, Sadiq has earmarked a record £1.159 billion to fund policing in 2025-26 – an increase of nearly 105 per cent in annual funding compared to the previous Mayor’s final budget.  But despite this investment, and the extra support from the new government, the Met is still facing significant financial pressures due to over a decade of real terms cuts by the previous government.  

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “No-one should under-estimate the significance of this. It is a record amount of investment.

    “Bearing down on crime and keeping Londoners safe is my top priority as Mayor and I’ll always use all the levers at my disposal to fund the police, investing record sums from City Hall.

    “I am pleased to propose an additional £320 million since last year for the Metropolitan Police, with £83m more since January, thanks to Government support.

    “Despite this record-breaking additional funding, the Met still faces a difficult financial situation due to over a decade of cuts by the previous government. As Mayor, I will continue to work with the new government and the Commissioner ahead of the forthcoming spending review on the funding the Met needs to ensure we can continue building a safer London for everyone.”

    The Mayor’s final draft Budget also confirms £147.5 million of funding to deliver free school meals for all London’s state primary schoolchildren in 2025-26 – the third year of the historic scheme. Delivering free school meals has been one of Sadiq’s proudest moments as Mayor and he has vowed to continue the scheme for as long as he is in office.

    More than 43 million free school meals were funded in the first year of the scheme, with up to 287,000 children benefitting and families saving more than £1,000 per child over the first two years of the scheme.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatality – Mountfort Park, Weymouth

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A person has died following an incident involving a motorcycle in Mountfort Park in Weymouth this evening.

    The incident was reported to Police at 7.40pm.

    Cordons are in place within the park and members of the public are asked to avoid the area.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 8 between Millers Flat and Raes Junction impacted by flooding

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 8 between Millers Flat and Raes Junction is being impacted by flooding.

    Motorists are asked take alternative routes if possible, or delay travel.

    Anyone travelling on the road is asked to drive with caution and adjust your driving to the conditions. 

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Firearm offences – Pinelands

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 34-year-old male and is searching for another person of interest in relation to a stolen motor vehicle, drug offences and firearm offences in Pinelands yesterday afternoon.

    About 1:25pm, Fugitive Taskforce members observed a reported stolen motor vehicle parked at a service station on Stuart Highway. Members approached the driver who failed to comply with directions and attempted to flee from police in the vehicle. Members successfully deployed a taser and apprehended the male.

    A subsequent search of the vehicle identified a quantity of methamphetamine, cocaine, cannabis, ammunition and an imitation firearm.

    He was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital for medical assessment and was later charged with:

    • Resist Police in execution of duty
    • Driving a motor vehicle without consent
    • 2 x Possess Schedule 1 dangerous drug – less than traffickable quantity
    • Possess Schedule 2 dangerous drug – less than traffickable
    • Possess ammunition without a licence
    • Possess a prohibited weapon
    • Drive a motor vehicle whilst unlicenced
    • Breach of bail

    He was remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    Police believe another person of interest was in the service station when the arrest was unfolding and fled the scene.

    The Fugitive Taskforce has carriage of the investigation.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Eastwood

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are at the scene of a serious crash at Eastwood.

    About 4.10pm today (Tuesday 18 February), emergency services were called to Greenhill Road after reports that a car had collided with a pedestrian.

    Westbound traffic is down to one lane approaching Glen Osmond Road.

    Please avoid the area if possible.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Confiscation order lawfully issued

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today strongly condemned the unfounded smear and malicious attacks online, after the Court of First Instance, in accordance with the law, issued an order to confiscate the proceeds Hui Chi-fung obtained from committing offences endangering national security.

    The court, upon application by the Department of Justice (DoJ), issued the confiscation order under section 9 of Schedule 3 of the Implementation Rules of Article 43 of the National Security Law, concerning the confiscation of proceeds Hui Chi-fung obtained from the aforesaid offences.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government issued a statement to provide the facts and set the record straight, stressing that the application for and issuance of the confiscation order must comply with the strict conditions specified in Schedule 3 of the implementation rules, including that the court must be satisfied the absconded defendant could have been convicted of the relevant offence and must determine whether the defendant has benefitted from that offence.

    It stated that the court must also ascertain the value of the proceeds of the offence endangering national security and the amount that might be realised at the time the confiscation order is made. There is absolutely no situation in which private property could be “confiscated at any time” or “arbitrarily”.

    In addition to noting that Hui Chi-fung has committed numerous heinous crimes with a number of criminal charges laid against him, the Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that he is currently a wanted person with a reward notice by Police and specified as a relevant absconder by the Secretary for Security under sections 89(1) of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government indicated that before and after Hui Chi-fung absconded from Hong Kong, he transferred nearly $2.5 million in personal assets as gifts to his mother and wife. The court is also satisfied with the relevant transaction evidence submitted by the DoJ.

    According to the law, if a defendant benefits from committing an offence endangering national security and makes a gift at any time from six years before the date of prosecution onwards, the property held by the recipient of the gift may be regarded as the defendant’s realisable property and confiscated.

    The value of the criminal proceeds ordered for confiscation by the court is determined strictly based on evidence and in accordance with the law. The value of the criminal proceeds attributed to Hui Chi-fung was calculated based on the relevant evidence to establish a reasonable value, the Hong Kong SAR Government explained.

    Additionally, it emphasised that Hong Kong is a society underpinned by the rule of law and has always adhered to the principle that laws must be obeyed and lawbreakers held accountable.

    Apart from specifying that it is a common and effective practice to make an application to the court for a confiscation order to prevent offenders from benefitting from their criminal acts, the Hong Kong SAR Government said that laws and mechanisms for confiscation of crime proceeds are common around the world.

    They cover the crime proceeds from commission of any serious offence, including offences endangering national security, it added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 2, Matatā blocked by crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 2 near Matatā is blocked following a crash this evening.

    Police were advised at 6.20pm that a ute had rolled on State Highway 2, between the two turnoffs into McPherson Street.

    The driver is reported to have serious injuries and the road is expected to remain closed for some time.

    Motorists are asked to take alternative routes where possible.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – No to anti-protest law – Peace Action Wellington

    Source: Peace Action Wellington

    In a report released today, the Independent Police Conduct Authority has called for new standalone legislation directed at preemptively policing protest.

    “I completely reject the IPCA recommendation for a specific protest law. It will limit our fundamental rights and freedoms,” said Valerie Morse.

    “We already have a great protest law: it’s called the NZ bill of rights.”

    “Police regularly try to limit or shut down protests that are simply embarrassing or unhelpful for the government. They cannot be trusted to prioritise people’s rights at protests.”

    “I have been arrested a number of times at protests. When these charges have gone to court the judge has thrown them out. If the police had had their way these protests never would have occurred.”

    “Just because similar jurisdictions have laws about policing protests doesn’t mean that they are a good idea. The US, UK and Australia are all suffering from extreme democratic deficits – in part due to authoritarian responses like these anti-protest laws.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woman reported after school incident

    Source: South Australia Police

    A woman has been reported after an incident at a northeastern suburbs school earlier this month.

    It will be alleged about 3pm on Monday 3 February, the woman entered a classroom and verbally threatened a teenage girl.

    Thankfully, the student involved was not physically injured.

    Following investigations and after speaking with all parties, police have reported a 31-year-old Para Vista woman for assault.

    She will be summonsed to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court at a later date.

    MIL OSI News –