NewzIntel.com

Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Working together to enhance community safety in Hobart

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Working together to enhance community safety in Hobart

    Thursday, 31 October 2024 – 9:57 am.

    Tasmania Police and City of Hobart council staff have again collaborated to conduct a public safety operation in Hobart’s CBD.
    Inspector John Toohey said the effort conducted last night demonstrated an ongoing united approach to community safety and security, after a successful operation in July.
    “Last night our combined resources, including Hobart Police, Taskforce Saturate, and the Dog Handler Unit, worked alongside City of Hobart staff to monitor CCTV in real-time and provide an enhanced response capability,” he said.
    “As a result of the operation, five arrests were made, two summonses issued, one person was referred to the drug diversion process, two will be dealt with under the Youth Justice Act and three people were issued infringement notices.”
    “Offences included breaching a police family violence order, breach of a restraint order, stealing, breaching bail, possess a controlled drug or plant, possess thing used to administer a controlled drug, possess an open container of liquor, possess a dangerous article and possess ammunition when not the holder of a firearm licence.”
    “These collaborative efforts are crucial in ensuring Hobart continues to be a safe and enjoyable place for everyone.”
    “We encourage all community members to support this initiative by staying vigilant and reporting any incidents to police.”
    Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds highlighted the importance of the City’s collaboration with Tasmania Police in promoting community safety, following similar successful operations in Wellington Court and at Salamanca.
    “Our aim is to make Hobart’s CBD and surrounding areas safe, welcoming, and vibrant, supporting businesses and ensuring everyone enjoys the city,” Cr Reynolds said.
    “With our partnership with Tasmania Police, we’re building a strong community and instilling confidence.
    “This safety blitz is a proactive way to enhance Hobart’s atmosphere, and we’re committed to creating a harmonious public space.”
    “We encourage everyone to support this effort by staying aware, reporting incidents, and looking out for one another.
    “Together, we can keep Hobart safe and enjoyable for all.”
    Results:
    A 32-year-old man was arrested and charged with breaching a Police Family Violence Order and breach of bail, he was detained for court.
    A 15-year-old girl was arrested for breaching a restraint order and stealing, she has been released and summonsed.
    A 14-year-old girl was arrested and charged with stealing; she was bailed to appear.
    A 16-year-old girl was arrested and charged with stealing; she was bailed to appear.
    A 56-year-old man was taken into custody for public intoxication, he will be released when sober.
    A 24-year-old man will be summonsed for possess thing used for the administration of a controlled drug.
    A 20-year-old man will be summonsed for possess ammunition when not the holder of a firearm licence and possess a controlled weapon, namely pepper spray.
    A 37-year-old man has been referred to the drug diversion process after being found in possession of a controlled drug, namely LSD.
    A 35-year-old man was issued a liquor infringement notice for possessing an open container of liquor in a public place.
    A 23-year-old man was issued a liquor infringement notice for possessing an open container of liquor in a public place.
    A 17-year-old girl will be dealt with under the Youth Justices Act for possess thing used for the administration of a controlled drug.
    A 14-year-old girl will be dealt with under the Youth Justices Act after being found in possession of a controlled drug, namely cannabis.
    17 formal directions to leave the CBD were also issued.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Senior officer terminated following Professional Standards investigation

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Senior officer terminated following Professional Standards investigation

    Wednesday, 30 October 2024 – 5:00 pm.

    A senior police officer’s employment has been formally terminated following an extensive Professional Standards investigation into internal complaints of sexual misconduct at a Christmas function with colleagues in Hobart in December 2023.
    The officer, an inspector of police, was dismissed under section 30(1) of the Police Service Act 2003, which determines that a commissioned officer can be terminated if the Commissioner does not have confidence in their suitability to continue as a police officer.
    Commissioner Donna Adams said that Tasmania Police was committed to delivering a policing service in line with our Values of Accountability, Integrity, Respect and Support.
    “The Tasmanian community has high expectations of its policing service, and we are entrusted with significant powers to perform our duties to keep people safe. The conduct of every police officer can impact on the community’s confidence in police to deliver this service,” she said.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Westchester Valley — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Matthew Bishop

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Cumberland District RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 31-year-old Matthew Eugene Bishop. He was last seen at approximately 7:30 p.m. on October 29; he’s believed to have been involved in a collision on Hwy. 104 in Westchester Valley.

    Bishop has brown hair and blue eyes. He’s approximately 5’7″ tall, 135 pounds. No clothing description is available.

    When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Matthew Bishop is asked to contact Cumberland District RCMP at 902-667-3859. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Combating sales activities of duty-not-paid cigarettes

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Ngan Man-yu and a written reply by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, in the Legislative Council today (October 30):
     
    Question:
     
         It has been reported that the sales activities of duty-not-paid cigarettes (illicit cigarettes) have become increasingly rampant in recent years. Lawbreakers have employed adolescents with little life experience to distribute illicit cigarette leaflets, commonly known as “dim sum sheets”, in public housing estates, and there are even “cheap whites promotion teams” wearing tops printed with the brand names of “cheap whites” (i.e. illicit cigarettes packaged in the same way as duty-paid cigarettes) to promote illicit cigarettes to smokers in busy areas. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the following information on illicit cigarette cases intercepted at source by the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) in the past three years: the number of such cases, the number of persons involved in such cases, and the market value of the illicit cigarettes involved; what measures the authorities have put in place to step up efforts to intercept at source the smuggling of illicit cigarettes into Hong Kong;
     
    (2) of the following information on the law enforcement operations conducted by C&ED to combat illicit cigarette activities in the past three years: the number of such operations, the number of cases detected, the number and dutiable value of the illicit cigarettes seized, the number and age distribution of persons arrested (with a breakdown by seller and buyer), and the penalty imposed on the convicted persons;
     
    (3) regarding the recruitment of young people by lawbreakers to promote illicit cigarettes, whether C&ED and the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office (TACO) of the Department of Health have received the related reports, and of the relevant follow-up situations; what measures C&ED and TACO have put in place to prevent young people from participating in the promotional and trafficking activities of illicit cigarettes;
     
    (4) as it has been reported that lawbreakers have set up websites to advertise illicit cigarettes on the Internet, and to advertise and sell illicit cigarettes through social media platforms and instant messaging applications (e.g. Facebook, Instagram and Telegram), what measures C&ED and TACO have put in place to intercept such advertising and sales activities, and whether it has assessed the effectiveness of such measures;
     
    (5) of the total number of reports on suspected illicit cigarette activities received by C&ED through its 24-hour hotline, dedicated crime-reporting email account or online form in the past three years, and the relevant follow-up situations; and
     
    (6) whether C&ED and TACO have considered, by drawing reference from the policy on combating abuses of public housing, setting up a financial reward mechanism for reporting to encourage members of the public to report the sale of illicit cigarettes, so as to reduce the promotional and trafficking activities of illicit cigarettes in public housing estates?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Tobacco products are dutiable commodities. Tobacco duty is payable by importers or manufacturers according to the specified rates under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109). To protect Government revenue, the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) has been combating smuggling and trading of illicit cigarettes on different fronts. As for matters relating to tobacco control, they are mainly enforced by the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office (TACO) of the Department of Health according to the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Cap. 371).
     
         Upon consultation with the Health Bureau, the consolidated reply to the question is as follows:
     
    (1) C&ED has been closely monitoring the control points and illicit cigarettes activities in the city closely, and has strengthened intelligence exchange with the Mainland and overseas law enforcement agencies with a view to intercepting illicit cigarettes at source. The relevant numbers on interception of illicit cigarettes at various control points by C&ED from January 2021 to September 2024 are set out below:
     

    Year
    Number of cases
    Number of persons arrested
    Number of illicit cigarettes seized
    (million)
    Estimated market value
    ($million)

    2021
    3 156
    2 856
    247
    678

    2022
    2 575
    2 246
    634
    1,753

    2023 (Note 1)
    10 452
    10 276
    554
    1,896

    2024 (Note 1)
    (Up to September)
    14 198
    13 783
    191
    841

    Note 1: The significant increase in the number of cases and arrests as compared with 2022 is mainly due to the large increase in the number of incoming passengers intercepted at control points for possessing tobacco products exceeding the duty-free quantity after the full resumption of normal travel between Hong Kong and the Mainland.
     
    (2) From January 2021 to September 2024, C&ED has conducted 11 large-scale special operations to combat illicit cigarette activities at various control points, as well as telephone-ordering activities for or distribution of flyers of illicit cigarettes at public rental housing estates (PRH). In addition, C&ED has been closely monitoring the latest development in the market and strengthened intelligence gathering. If a retailer is found to be selling duty-not-paid cigarettes, C&ED will take resolute enforcement actions. The enforcement figures of C&ED in combating illicit cigarettes through various channels (including daily inspections, interception at various control points, large-scale special operations, etc.) from January 2021 to September 2024 are set out below:
     

    Year
    Number of cases
    Number of persons arrested
    Number of illicit cigarettes seized
    (million)
    Estimated market value
    ($million)
    Duty payable
    ($million)

    2021
    4 009
    3 555
    427
    1,176
    815

    2022
    3 438
    2 813
    732
    2,017
    1,395

    2023Note
    11 806
    10 994
    652
    2,256
    1,541

    2024 (Note 2)
    (Up to September)
    15 014
    14 397
    367
    1,639
    1,208

    Note 2: The significant increase in the number of cases and arrests as compared with 2022 is mainly due to the large increase in the number of incoming passengers intercepted at control points for possessing tobacco products exceeding the duty-free quantity after the full resumption of normal travel between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and the seven large-scale special operations conducted by C&ED in 2023 and 2024.
     
         The number of arrested persons involved in buying or selling illicit cigarettes from January 2021 to September 2024 are set out below:
     

    Year
    Arrested persons
    Age distribution

    Sellers
    Buyers
    Total
    20 or below
    21 to 40
    41 to 60
    61 or above

    2021
    259
    206
    465
    13
    99
    172
    181

    2022
    117
    301
    418
    26
    98
    165
    129

    2023
    185
    401
    586
    28
    145
    222
    191

    2024
    (Up to September)
    244
    262
    506
    15
    86
    207
    198

     
         During the above period, the penalties imposed by the court on illicit cigarette cases ranged from a minimum of $200 (involving 200 illicit cigarettes) to a maximum of imprisonment of 18 months (involving about 12 million illicit cigarettes).
     
    (3), (4) and (6) According to the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (the Ordinance), no person shall display or cause to be displayed any smoking product advertisement in any form. Any person who contravenes the prohibitions is liable on summary conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000, and in the case of a continuing offence, to a further penalty of $1,500 for each day during which the offence continues. The distribution of smoking product advertisements in PRH not only involves peddling of suspected duty-not-paid smoking products, but also affects the law and order and management of the estates. Hence, TACO has all along been co-operating with the relevant departments with a view to combating these illegal activities more effectively. A co-operation mechanism has been established among TACO, the Police and the Housing Department to conduct enforcement actions against illegal activities of distributing smoking products advertisements in PRH. Since January this year, the relevant departments have conducted over 220 joint operations in PRH in Hong Kong. During the operations, in addition to patrolling the estates, officers from TACO also provided information to the estate security workers and residents on how to deal with suspected violation. They were also reminded to observe the laws and not to purchase smoking products from unknown sources. TACO will refer any suspected cases of illicit cigarettes that involve violations of the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance to C&ED for further investigation.
     
         Regarding the allegation that some people are distributing illicit cigarettes on the streets, under the Ordinance, no person may give smoking product to another person for promotion or advertisement. Any person who contravenes the prohibitions is liable on summary conviction to a maximum fine of $25,000. TACO has conducted multiple proactive inspections at relevant locations. No illegal activity has been found so far. TACO will closely monitor activities contravening the Ordinance (including those promoting or advertising smoking products), which include arranging covert inspections and taking enforcement actions on an ongoing basis. In addition, TACO will also conduct online inspections. If online smoking product advertisements suspected of contravening the law are found, TACO will request the relevant internet service providers and social media platforms to remove the relevant content.
     
         From January 2023 to August 2024, TACO issued 124 summonses and 43 warning letters regarding offences of displaying or distributing smoking product advertisements, and removed around 2 550 websites and social media accounts/posts involving advertisements of smoking products. Since 2021, 14 offenders have been convicted of the offence related to distributing smoking product advertisements, with a maximum penalty of $8,000.
     
         In addition, C&ED has also been conducting online inspections targeting suspected sale of illicit cigarettes. When suspected cases are found, C&ED will immediately express concerns to and follow up with the relevant websites or social media platforms, including blocking the accounts concerned and removing the relevant illicit cigarettes advertisements. From January to September 2024, a total of 429 relevant advertisements have been removed.
     
         In order to combat illicit cigarettes in a more effective manner and protect non-smokers from tobacco hazards, the Government announced its plan in June this year to implement the next-phase tobacco control measures. They include the introduction of a duty stamp system in order to differentiate duty-paid cigarettes from duty-not-paid ones; to require proofs that tobacco products sold at a price lower than the tobacco duty are duty-paid; and to increase the maximum penalty for dealing with, possession of, selling or buying duty-not-paid cigarettes. The Government expects that the above measures will strengthen the deterrent effect and enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in combating illicit cigarettes. At present, the Government has no plan to introduce financial incentives for reporting illicit cigarette cases. However, C&ED will seriously follow up on reports of suspected illicit cigarette activities.
     
    (5) The numbers of reports on suspected illicit cigarettes activities received by C&ED through different channels from January 2021 to September 2024 are set out below:
     

    Year
    Reports

    2021
    3 054

    2022
    3 526

    2023
    3 476

    2024
    (Up to September)
    5 640

         C&ED will follow up each report and refer it to frontline staff for investigation if necessary. Since the investigations are confidential, C&ED will not disclose their progress and details.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ4: Healthcare services provided by unregistered persons

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Professor the Hon Chan Wing-kwong and a reply by the Under Secretary for Health, Dr Libby Lee, in the Legislative Council today (October 30):
     
    Question:
     
         It has been reported that there are currently many premises in the community claiming to be pain treatment centres, etc., boasting that they can provide clients with services such as “bone manipulating” and pain treatment, but some members of the public are injured after receiving services provided by persons who are suspected to be non-healthcare professionals at these premises. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it knows the number of the aforesaid premises and, among them, the number of those which have applied for licences for private healthcare facilities (PHFs);
     
    (2) of the number of complaints made against the aforesaid premises and the follow-up situations in the past three years; among them, the number of cases involving unlicensed medical practice, and the respective numbers of persons prosecuted and convicted; and
     
    (3) as it is learnt that some premises which have not applied for PHFs licences are presenting an image of licensed healthcare facilities through means such as promotion and furnishings in order to mislead consumers, of the measures the authorities have put in place to caution members of the public against seeking inappropriate treatments for certain medical conditions, so as to safeguard their health?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In consultation with the Security Bureau, I provide a consolidated reply as follows:
     
         Premises providing pain relief services in the community can be classified into three categories:

    (1) involving healthcare services which should be provided by registered medical practitioners and/or dentists, e.g. prescription of painkillers or performance of surgical procedures etc.;
     
    (2) involving healthcare services which should be provided by healthcare professions of other different disciplines; and
     
    (3) not providing healthcare services, say conducting only massage which do not concern the practice of healthcare professionals.
     
         These three categories of services are regulated by different legislations. As the premises under the aforementioned categories 1 and 2 provide healthcare services, they are regulated by relevant legislations on healthcare facilities and healthcare professions.
     
         Since 2018, the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance (Cap. 633) regulates premises where registered medical practitioners and/or dentists practise. Operators are required to obtain a licence or letter of exemption in order to operate private healthcare facilities. The existing law specifically covers premises of these two healthcare professions as their daily operation may very likely involve high-risk issues such as infection control and blood management, thereby requiring the most stringent regulatory system under a risk-based principle. In this connection, apart from being regulated by the specific legislations on healthcare professions, such premises are also regulated by the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance. As of the third quarter of 2024, there are 14 licensed private hospitals and 259 licensed day procedure centres in Hong Kong. The Government is also preparing to implement the clinic licensing regime under the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance and will make an announcement shortly.
     
         Premises under category 2 involve healthcare services which are provided by healthcare professions of other multiple disciplines. By nature, services commonly known as “bone-manipulating” and “pain management” may be similar to the treatments provided by Chinese medicine practitioners, physiotherapists and chiropractors under their respective scope of practice. Depending on the actual services performed, relevant ordinances would come into play when healthcare services which must be provided by registered healthcare professionals are involved. This serves to prevent non-professionals from performing such acts so as to safeguard public health.
     
         The provision of a service will be considered as practising Chinese medicine if it involves the performance of any act or activities on the basis of traditional Chinese medicine in general practice, acupuncture or bone-setting as stipulated in the Chinese Medicine Ordinance (Cap. 549). Any person who is neither a registered nor listed Chinese medicine practitioner providing such service commits an offence and is liable to a fine at level 6 and imprisonment for three years. By the same token, any person who practises the profession of a physiotherapist as stipulated in the Supplementary Medical Professions Ordinance (Cap. 359) without registration commits an offence and is liable to a fine at level 2 and imprisonment for six months; whereas any person who is not listed in the register of registered chiropractors under the Chiropractors Registration Ordinance (Cap. 428) but practises chiropractic as defined in the Code of Practice by the Chiropractors Council commits an offence and is liable to a fine at level 5 and imprisonment for one year.
     
         During the period of 2021 to the third quarter of 2024, available records show that there were a total of 35 suspected cases of providing “bone-manipulating” or “pain management” services in contravention of the various ordinances on healthcare professionals. Of these, 3 cases were successfully prosecuted with conviction, while the others are still being processed or could not be successfully prosecuted possibly due to the individuals involved being subsequently proven to be registered healthcare professionals, etc. Members of the public should report to the Police if they suspect that someone is practising without registration or falsely using the title of a registered healthcare professional. The Department of Health (DH) as well as the statutory boards and councils of relevant healthcare professions will provide professional support to the Police as appropriate.
     
         To prevent the public from seeking improper treatment of certain conditions regardless of the type of premises which provides such services, the Undesirable Medical Advertisements Ordinance (Cap. 231) prohibits/restricts the publication of advertisements that will likely lead to the use of any medicine, surgical appliance or treatment for the purpose of treating or preventing diseases or conditions specified in Schedules 1 and 2 to the Ordinance. These include any disease of the musculo-skeletal system, including rheumatism, arthritis and sciatica. The DH has put in place an established mechanism for screening advertisements. Appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with the law against any contravention of the Ordinance.
     
         The Government urges members of the public not to casually believe the claims of being able to offer so-called “treatment” from random persons who are not registered or accredited as healthcare professionals. Since the professional qualifications and standards of these persons have not been attested, the safety and effectiveness of the so-called “treatment” cannot be assured. It may even worsen the condition or cause injury. Before receiving healthcare services, members of the public can browse the online registers of the statutory boards and councils of relevant healthcare professions to ascertain the qualifications of service providers. If members of the public have doubts about the qualifications of the healthcare professionals, they can also request the person concerned to provide relevant certification documents in order to better protect their safety.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Housing Department urges public to be alert to fraudulent website of Cash Allowance Trial Scheme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Housing Department (HD) today (October 30) alerted members of the public to a fraudulent website (https://cashalwaysget_hk2024.site), which purports to be the website of the Cash Allowance Trial Scheme.
     
         The fraudulent website seeks to obtain the personal and credit card information of members of the public. The HD emphasises that the fraudulent website has no connection with the Cash Allowance Trial Scheme” and has referred the case to the Police for follow-up.
     
         Anyone who has provided his or her personal information to the website concerned should contact the Police. For enquiries, please call the Cash Allowance Office hotline of the HD at 3105 3333.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ17: Protecting the rights and interests of consumers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Professor the Hon Priscilla Leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, in the Legislative Council today (October 30):
     
    Question:
     
         It has been reported that a chain fitness and beauty group suddenly announced its “temporary business suspension” last month. As at the middle of last month, the Consumer Council received a total of 3 861 relevant complaints, involving a total amount of nearly $130 million, with an average amount of about $33,000 per case, and the largest amount involved in a single complaint was about $1.81 million. Regarding protecting the rights and interests of consumers, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it will re-activate the legislative exercise to stipulate a statutory cooling-off period for beauty and fitness services consumer contracts; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (2) whether it will consider establishing new industry rules for the beauty and fitness industries, so as to protect the rights and interests of consumers; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) whether it will consider setting up an interdepartmental task force to roll out publicity and education programmes (especially targeting underprivileged groups such as poor elders), so as to help members of the public become smart consumers and avoid suffering losses; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is highly concerned about the recent incident involving the temporary business suspension suddenly announced by a chain fitness and beauty group, and has formed an inter-departmental dedicated investigation team to follow up. The dedicated investigation team, which comprises the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the Security Bureau, the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED), the Hong Kong Police Force (Police) and the Consumer Council (Council), continues to closely monitor the developments of the incident. In particular, the C&ED and the Police are conducting intensive investigation from the perspectives of offences regarding the unfair trade practices under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (Cap. 362) (the Ordinance) and whether other criminal offences are involved respectively.
     
         The reply to the various parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) and (2) In view of the unfair trade practices involving prepaid mode of consumption (in particular the situation of fitness centres and beauty parlours using aggressive tactics to sell services that involve large amount of prepayments), the Government conducted a three-month public consultation in 2019 to solicit views on the proposal to stipulate a statutory cooling-off period for beauty and fitness services consumer contracts through legislation. However, shortly after the public consultation, there have been drastic changes in the social environment, economic situation and consumption sentiment since the second half of 2019.
     
         We are aware that different sectors of the community have put forward various suggestions in respect of offering better protection to consumers who make prepayments (including stipulating a statutory cooling-off period, imposing a cap on the length of prepayment contracts and prepayment amounts, and setting up trust accounts), after this incident of the chain fitness and beauty group announcing temporary business suspension. We will conduct an in-depth study into different suggestions and consider their pros and cons and feasibility, with reference to the experience of this incident, other relevant factors (including the economic environment, the operating situation of relevant industries and relevant complaint and enforcement statistics) and the experience in other jurisdictions, with a view to formulating appropriate strategies to strengthen the protection of consumers’ rights and interests.
     
    (3) Currently, various laws in Hong Kong protect consumers’ rights and interests. Among others, the Ordinance covers goods and services, and prohibits traders from subjecting consumers to unfair trade practices, including false trade descriptions, misleading omissions, aggressive commercial practices, bait advertising, bait-and-switch and wrongly accepting payment. The Ordinance is applicable to the trade practices of both physical and online traders.
     
         The C&ED is the principal enforcement agency of the Ordinance, and adopts a three-pronged approach, covering enforcement actions, compliance promotion and publicity and public education, to combat unfair trade practices proactively. Meanwhile, the Council endeavours to study and promote the protection of consumers’ rights and interests, and carries out its statutory functions in accordance with the Consumer Council Ordinance (Cap. 216), including handling complaints from consumers and resolving disputes between consumers and traders.
     
         The C&ED and the Council have been maintaining close communication with each other, and have been collaborating with other government departments and social service organisations, etc, to jointly promote the protection of the rights and interests of consumers (including the elderly and other vulnerable groups). They also adjust and strengthen the strategies and work in respect of publicity and public education, having regard to the complaints and the enforcement situation. Among others, the relevant publicity and public education work includes:
     
    (i) Conducting talks and workshops for the elderly and other vulnerable groups (and their family members and carers), with a view to enhancing their understanding of common unfair trade practices and sharing with them tips about “smart consumption”, so as to prevent them from falling into sales pitfalls.
     
         In particular, targeting common unfair trade practices, the C&ED conducts talks for the elderly and joins hands with the Police, District Councils and District Fight Crime Committees to carry out promotion by distributing promotional leaflets to the elderly, with a view to enhancing the elderly’s understanding of the Ordinance and awareness of “smart consumption”.
     
    (ii) Conducting dedicated educational programmes to enhance the capability of the elderly and other vulnerable groups to guard against unfair trade practices.
     
         In particular, the Council conducts the Educator Scheme for Senior Citizens, which provides consumer education training to soon-to-be retirees and retirees so as to equip them to host consumer educational talks for other elderly in the community. The Council’s Support Programme for Persons with Special Needs, through virtual reality role-play simulations that cover different scenarios (for example those about the sales pitfalls of fitness and beauty centres), allows persons with special needs to better grasp the skills for guarding against common sales pitfalls.
     
    (iii) Disseminating consumer information to facilitate consumers to make informed consumption decisions.
     
         In particular, the Council publishes product tests, service surveys, consumption tips and complaint case sharing, etc, in its CHOICE magazine, providing practical consumer information to different groups of consumers (including the elderly and other vulnerable groups).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to identify family of man fatally stabbed in Wandsworth

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are urgently appealing to the public for assistance in identifying family members of 18-year-old Issa Ali Musa Abdulrahman Barakat, who tragically lost his life following a fatal stabbing early on Monday morning.

    Issa was found injured at around 06:00hrs on 28 October on Laitwood Road, SW12, and though emergency responders did all they could to save him, he sadly died in hospital later the same day.

    On Monday, Salah Al-Mahmoodi [known as Salah Ahmed], 21 (02.01.03), of Wandsworth was arrested. He was charged on Tuesday, 29 October with Issa’s murder and is due to appear at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court today (Wednesday, 30 October)

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

    “Our hearts go out to Issa and his family, a young man whose life was cruelly taken far too soon. It is devastating to think that his family may not yet know of his tragic passing, and we want to find them so we can offer them both support and answers.

    “Issa was a member of the Chadian community, and we hope that friends or extended family might help us in reaching his loved ones.”

    Anyone with information should call police via 101 or post on X @MetCC quoting CAD 1017/28Oct.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives investigating the deaths of two men in Herne Hill are appealing for witnesses

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the deaths of two men in Herne Hill are appealing for witnesses to come forward. 

    Two years ago, on Sunday, 30 October 2022, 23-year-old Guilherme Messias Da Silva and 27-year-old Lemar Urqhart died on Railton Road, Brixton. 

    Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, who leads the investigation, said: “It has been two years since this shocking incident and our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Guilherme and Lemar.

    “My team is working tirelessly to identify those responsible for their deaths and to get justice for the families. I am extremely grateful to those individuals who have already come forward to share information, but would urge anyone else who has information and has not yet spoken to us to come forward. No piece of information is too small.”

    Police were called at about 19:50hrs on Sunday, 30 October 2022 to reports of gunshots heard in the Railton Road area. 

    Officers, including firearms officers, immediately attended the scene along London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance. 

    Despite the efforts of emergency services, both Guilherme and Lemar were found injured at the location and pronounced dead at the scene. 

    Detectives believe two cars were driving in the Railton Road area when one of the cars was in collision with Guilherme’s moped before further colliding with parked vehicles. 

    Lemar then got out of one of the cars involved in the collision and was pursued by a man, armed with a firearm. The man shot Lemar and returned to his car before leaving the scene. 

    Lemar Urqhart’s family statement said: “Two years since our son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and friend was tragically taken from us. Whoever said time is a healer, lied. The pain is unbearable & life will never be the same. Lemar was an integral part of the family and his death has rocked our family to the core. Every day we hope that new information is given to aid the arrest of the person/s who did this. We plead with anyone who has information to please come forward. Any information could be vital. Our family would be forever grateful to anyone who could help.”

    Any witnesses or anyone with information should call police via 101 quoting CAD 6166/30Oct. Alternatively, speak to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. They will not trace your call or your IP address. 

    Information can also be submitted via the Public Portal.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Alert issued on fraudulent website

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Housing Department today alerted the public to a fraudulent website purporting to be the Cash Allowance Trial Scheme’s website and that seeks to obtain people’s personal and credit card information.

    The fraudulent website is “https://cashalwaysget_hk2024.site”.

    The department made it clear that the fraudulent website has no connection with the scheme and the case has been referred to Police for follow-up.

    Anyone who has provided personal information to the website should contact Police. Call 3105 3333 for enquiries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Financial support to Member States to protect themselves from uncontrolled immigration, Islamist terrorism and cross-border crime – E-002170/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    18.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002170/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), Fabrice Leggeri (PfE)

    The German Government has recently reintroduced temporary controls at its internal borders to counter threats related to Islamist terrorism and cross-border crime, in particular due to uncontrolled migration flows.

    However, the lack of technical and human resources makes it impossible to guarantee the effectiveness of controls. Andreas Roßkopf, Chairman of the Federal Police Union, said the following on regional radio SWR1: ‘Drone surveillance, recognition of number plates, mobile control posts: we are going to need all of this to finally be able to tackle smugglers on an equal footing’[1].

    It is thus essential to strengthen Member States’ capacities to protect their internal borders, while respecting their national sovereignty.

    Does the Commission intend to make EU funds available to support Member States in acquiring surveillance equipment and equipment to carry out controls, as well as any other materials needed to effectively secure their internal borders?

    Submitted: 18.10.2024

    • [1] https://www.swr.de/swr1/rp/programm/grenzkontrollen-interview-mit-andreas-rosskopf-gdp-bundespolizei-100.html
    Last updated: 30 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Public Spaces Protection Order to be introduced in Preston City Centre

    Source: City of Preston

    Starting in December, Preston City Council will introduce a new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in partnership with Preston Police to address crime and anti-social behaviour in key areas of the city centre.

    The city centre PSPO is to be introduced following public consultation earlier in the year.

    The Council has also consulted other local organisations. The area to be included in the order is within the City Centre Ward and the anti-social behaviour to be challenged will be that which is persistent, unreasonable and has a detrimental effect on other people using those public spaces.

    Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet Member for environment and community safety at Preston City Council, said:

    “As we approach the festive season, it’s vital that people in the city centre feel safe to enjoy themselves. By collaborating with Preston Police, the Council will be able to reduce anti-social behaviour and enhance public safety.

    This will be the first order of its kind to be introduced into Preston and this new enforcement initiative demonstrates our joint commitment to keeping the city centre an attractive place to visit.”

    Prior to the PSPO’s introduction, authorised officers of the Council will advise residents and visitors about the new measures and the implications of breaching the order. When the order commences, the Police and Council officers will work jointly to give official warnings for breaches of the order and to report serious or repeat violations for enforcement, including £100 fixed penalty fines.

    Dave Byrne, Neighbourhood Policing Inspector for Preston, said:

    “Anti-social behaviour can have a profound impact on people’s lives. As part of Operation Centurion, our force response to tackling anti-social behaviour, we will continue to work with our partners to ensure that those who live in, work and visit Preston can feel safe and enjoy their time here.”

    Under Sections 59 of the Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014, the City Centre PSPO will enforce the following:

    1. No persons shall consume alcohol or have an open alcohol container within the Prohibition Area marked red on the plan after having been requested by an Authorised Officer to cease consumption of alcohol or hand over the container (unless in an otherwise lawful premises).
    2. No persons shall ingest, inhale, inject, smoke, or otherwise use intoxicating substances within the Prohibition Area.  Intoxicating substances being defined as substances with the capacity to stimulate or depress the central nervous system or psychoactive substances – but does not include tobacco or prescription medication.
    3. No persons shall urinate or defecate in any public place (other than a public toilet) within the Prohibition Area.
    4. No persons shall discard hypodermic needles or syringes in any public place within the Prohibition Area (except in an appropriate sharp container).
    5. No persons shall occupy a tent or other temporary structure within the Prohibition Area in a manner likely to create a health and safety risk for other people.
    6. No persons shall obstruct a building entrance or exit, stairwell, or highway in the Prohibition Area after being asked to move by an authorised officer.
    7. No persons shall use sound amplification equipment in any place (other than premises or vehicles where these activities are permitted under their licence conditions and with the expressed permission of the licence holder) within the Prohibition Area at a volume or in a manner that causes harassment, alarm or distress to any person and fail, without reasonable excuse, to reduce the volume or stop using the amplification equipment if requested to do so by an Authorised Officer.
    8. No persons shall act or incite others to act in an anti-social manner likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harbour Grace — Charges anticipated against off-road vehicle operator who attempted to evade traffic stop

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Charges are pending against a 42-year-old operator of an off-road vehicle who attempted to evade Harbour Grace RCMP during a traffic stop in Harbour Grace on October 26, 2024.

    At approximately 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, police observed a side-by-side, with two occupants who were not wearing helmets, travelling at a high rate of speed on Harvey Street. The officer was unable to initiate a traffic stop and engaged another officer, who was also on Harvey Street, for assistance. In anticipation of the off-road vehicle approaching, the second officer positioned the police vehicle in the middle of the road and activated emergency lights. Upon approach of the police vehicle, the off-road vehicle operator attempted to evade the traffic stop by turning around in the roadway and subsequently crashed the side-by-side on the roadway.

    The passenger, a 48-year-old woman, was transported to Carbonear General Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver, who was without insurance or registration, was uninjured.

    The side by side was impounded as part of the investigation. Charges are anticipated. The investigation is continuing.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man jailed for 22 years after detectives linked him to violent robbery in Barnet

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been sentenced to life imprisonment after a homicide investigation identified him as one of a gang of people who carried out a violent robbery in Barnet.

    During a trial at the Old Bailey, a jury heard the group all travelled to 30-year-old Olsi Kuka’s home address in High Road, N20, shortly before 03:00hrs on 11 May 2022.

    They were split into two Mercedes cars that parked outside before the group forced entry into the flat and attacked Olsi, stabbing him numerous times.

    They then ransacked his flat, searching for drugs and money they believed Olsi had in his property.

    After the men left the flat, police and paramedics were called. Despite the efforts of emergency services, Olsi sadly died a short time later.

    A post-mortem examination concluded that the stab wounds had been caused by ‘at least’ two different knives. There were also four metal ball-bearings found in his scalp consistent with being shot by an air weapon.

    A murder investigation, led by homicide detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, used CCTV and mobile phone analysis to identify the five men involved in the attack.

    Detectives discovered that one of the cars had travelled to the address four days before on a reconnaissance trip.

    A police search dog also helped provide vital evidence to secure the conviction of a man for murder.

    Dog handler PC Neil Dobson and a police dog called Monty searched managed to find £8,000 in cash hidden in the headboard of a bed that had not been found by the group.

    Following a trial at the Old Bailey, Reuben Bernard, 19, (22.03.05) of Wootton, Northampton, was convicted of murder.

    On Tuesday, 29 October, Bernard was sentenced to life imprisonment, to serve 22 years. He was also sentenced to seven years for conspiracy to rob and three years for causing grievous bodily harm; these sentences will be served concurrently.

    Detective Chief Inspector Neil Rawlinson said: “The violence used in this attack was calculated, vicious and unrelenting.

    “The five men that have been sentenced had planned to rob Olsi and were prepared to use any force necessary in order to get what they wanted.

    “We continue to pursue lines of enquiry that may provide evidence as to the involvement of other people in this atrocious act of violence.”

    Four other men have been sentenced for their involvement. They are:

    Santana Thompson, 21 (04.02.03), of Aldriche Way was sentenced to 10 years in prison for Olsi’s manslaughter, 10 years for conspiracy to rob and one year for Section 20 wounding.

    Daige Ramsey, 25 (30.11.98) of Winchester Road, E4 was convicted of the manslaughter of Olsi Kuka and jailed for 11 years. He was also sentenced to 10 years for conspiracy to rob and 12 months for section 20 wounding.

    Ozan Seran 29 (05.06.95), of no fixed address pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to 12-and-a-half years’ imprisonment. He was also sentenced to 11-and-a-half years for conspiracy to rob and nine months for section 20 wounding.

    Bulent Bakir, 27 (05.01.97) of Old Road, Enfield, was convicted of conspiracy to rob and sentenced to six years.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dartmouth — Nova Scotia RCMP release impaired statistics for July to September 2024

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    As Nova Scotia’s provincial police, road safety is a top priority for the Nova Scotia RCMP. For the months of July, August, and September, 274 drivers in the province were charged with impaired-related offences.

    • 234 charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Alcohol
    • 12 charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Drug
    • 28 charged with Refusal of a Demand Made by a Peace Officer

    In addition to investigations that resulted in charges, a further 130 people were issued administrative driving suspensions for Operating a Conveyance While Having Consumed Alcohol.

    Failure or refusal to comply with a peace officer’s request to provide a sample for sobriety testing can result in criminal charges that have the same penalties as impaired driving. There are a range of fines and periods of driving prohibition for those convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

    Citizens are asked to call 911 immediately if they see a driver who’s driving erratically or unsafely. Here are some signs that an impaired driver might be behind the wheel:

    • Driving unreasonably fast, slow or at an inconsistent speed
    • Drifting in and out of lanes
    • Tailgating and changing lanes frequently
    • Making exceptionally wide turns
    • Changing lanes or passing without sufficient clearance
    • Overshooting or stopping well before stop signs or stop lights
    • Disregarding signals and lights
    • Approaching signals or leaving intersections too quickly or slowly
    • Driving without headlights, failing to lower high beams or leaving turn signals on

    The 911 dispatcher will ask for:

    • Your location
    • A description of the vehicle, including the licence plate number, colour, make and model
    • The direction of travel for the vehicle
    • A description of the driver if visible

    The Nova Scotia RCMP asks motorists to plan ahead and drive sober.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: grmcapitalspro.com: BaFin investigates the company GRMcapitalsPRO

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the company GRMcapitalsPRO and the services it is offering. BaFin has information that the company is offering banking business and/or financial services in Germany on its website grmcapitalspro.com without the required authorisation. The company is not supervised by BaFin.

    Financial services may only be offered in Germany if the company providing these services has the necessary authorisation from BaFin to do this. However, some companies offer these services without the necessary authorisation. Information on whether a particular company has been granted authorisation by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.

    Theinformation provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Southend — Waskesiu RCMP seeking public assistance to locate missing female

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Waskesiu Detachment is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 63-year-old Margaret (also goes by Harder) Sinclair from Southend, Saskatchewan. She was reported missing on October 29 around 9:00 p.m.

    Margaret/Harder was a passenger in a vehicle and got out on Highway #2 near Weyakwin this evening – we don’t have a specific location. It is unknown if she caught a ride with anyone.

    RCMP are concerned for her well-being, especially given the cold temperatures.

    Margaret/Harder is described as: 170 pounds, 5’1″ tall, brown and grey coloured hair, wearing a black jacket. She was not dressed for the weather. She had a walker with her, which she requires for mobility.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Margaret/Harder is asked to contact their nearest police service or Waskesiu RCMP at 310-RCMP or 911.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Oxford set to mark Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day

    Source: City of Oxford

    Oxford will remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure and protect our freedom at Remembrance services next week.

    Remembrance Sunday 

    The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Councillor Mike Rowley, in partnership with the Oxford City branch of the Royal British Legion, is set to host a Remembrance Sunday service at the War Memorial in St Giles’ on Sunday 10 November. The Lord Mayor will be joined by military units, uniformed organisations, community groups, civic dignitaries, residents and visitors from across the county to mark Remembrance Sunday. 

    Remembrance Sunday takes place on the second Sunday in November and honours those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to secure and protect our freedom. Military units, organisations and community groups will gather for 10am at the junction of Beaumont Street and St Giles’. They will then march up St Giles’ from 10.30am. 

    The service will start at 10.45am, with a two minute silence at 11am. 

    Comment 

    “Every year Oxford observes Remembrance Sunday to commemorate those who have lost their lives in war and conflict. In this 80th anniversary year of D-Day, we think of the sacrifices that were made to free Europe from the most murderous of tyrannies, honour all who defend us today, and recommit ourselves to the pursuit of peace here and throughout the world.” 
    The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Councillor Mike Rowley 

    The order of service is: 

    • Welcome: Councillor Mike Rowley, Lord Mayor of Oxford, and The Revd Anthony Buckley, City Rector 

    • Hymn: Abide With Me 

    • The Last Post, the Great Silence and the Reveille: Phil King, Bugle Major of the Quirinus Band & Bugle Corps 2011 e.V. 

    • The National Anthem 

    Representatives from Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council, Thames Valley Police, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, the University of Oxford, Oxford Brookes University, Help for Heroes, and Oxford’s twin cities will be present. If members of the public require British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation, the interpreter will be located on the junction of St Giles and Woodstock Road to the west of the dais. 

    Members of the public are welcome to put tributes on the monument before the service. 

    Armistice Day 

    There will be a service marking Armistice Day on Monday 11 November, starting at 10.55am, on the landing area at the top of the stairs in Oxford Town Hall. The service will be led by the Lord Mayor and all are welcome to attend. There will be a two-minute silence at 11am. 

    Wreath laying at Leiden Square, Westgate 

    A wreath laying ceremony by the Oxford-Leiden twin city link group will take place in Leiden Square, Westgate Oxford, on Saturday 9 November. The Lord Mayor of Oxford will be in attendance. The Oxford-Leiden link was Oxford’s first twin link and was established immediately after the Second World War in 1946. 

    Flying the flag 

    The Royal British Legion flag will be flown above Oxford Town Hall in the run up to Remembrance Sunday from Monday 4 November to 10 November, when the flag will be changed over to the Union Jack on Sunday 10 November until after King Charles III birthday on 14 November. 

    Road closures and parking suspension will be in place from 12.01am to 2pm on Sunday 10 November as follows: 

    • The pavement on Banbury Road, opposite the war memorial, will be closed. Members of the public are advised to follow pedestrian diversions or use Woodstock Road 

    • Keble Road 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: McAlester Resident Pleads Guilty To Federal Firearm Crime

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Leslie Ray Upchurch, age 35, of McAlester, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea one count of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.

    The Indictment alleged that on April 28, 2023, Upchurch, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and knowing of such conviction, knowingly possessed one Ruger 9mm Luger caliber semi-automatic pistol and several rounds of assorted 9mm Luger caliber ammunition.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the McAlester Police Department, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.  Upchurch was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob R. Parker represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Miami Resident Charged with Kidnapping Resulting in Death

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

    MIAMI – Today, Miami resident Gustavo Alfonso Castano Restrepo, 55, appeared before a U.S. Magistrate Judge on an indictment charging him with kidnapping resulting in death. 

    According to the unsealed indictment, on or about May 30, 2016, in Miami-Dade County, in the Southern District of Florida, and elsewhere, Restrepo, did willfully and unlawfully seize, confine, inveigle, decoy, kidnap, abduct, and carry away and hold a person, that is, Liliana Moreno, for reward and otherwise, and did use a means, facility, and instrumentality of interstate commerce, that is, a cellular telephone, the internet, a motor vehicle, and the Homestead Extension of Florida’s Turnpike, in the commission and in furtherance of the offense. The kidnapping resulted in the deaths of Liliana Moreno and Daniella Moreno.

    Restrepo is currently being detained, following today’s hearing in Miami. A pre-trial detention hearing in Miami Magistrate Court is scheduled for Nov. 1.

    If Restrepo is convicted of the charged offense, the mandatory minimum sentence is life in prison and the maximum penalty is death.

    U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, Chief Edwin Lopez of the Doral Police Department, and Director Stephanie V. Daniels of the Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD) made the announcement.

    FBI Miami, the Doral Police Department, MDPD, and FBI’s South Florida Violent Crime/Fugitive Task Force are investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Dwayne Williams is prosecuting the case.

    Anyone with information about this matter or any other federal crime is urged to contact the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or filing a report at tips.fbi.gov.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-20463

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. John’s — Heading out for Halloween? Check out these Spook-tacular safety tips from RCMP NL

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Halloween is a busy time for kids of all ages! Plan for a fun and safe evening by using these safety tips from RCMP NL to help ensure a Happy Halloween.

    Look the part while being visible and safe:

    • Be visible. Wear a light/bright colored costume. Add reflective tape or arm bands to increase visibility.
    • Ensure your costume is made of flame-retardant material.
    • Make sure your costume fits well to avoid ghostly falls or stumbles.
    • Use flashlights and glow sticks; they are great accessories for any costume and can keep kids visible to motorists.

    Be street smart:

    • Parents/guardians should help plan and be aware of the route that their children will travel for trick-or-treating.
    • Children should be able to recognize places where they can get help: police station, fire station or any other well-known public place.
    • Stay on the sidewalks. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left-hand side of the street facing traffic.
    • Never enter a house. Only accept treats at the front door.

    Take extra care with driving:

    • Slow down and be extra cautious. Expect that trick-or-treaters may forget to look both ways before rushing across the street or a driveway in their search for treats.
    • Watch for people using crosswalks.
    • Do not drive impaired or while distracted.
    • Ensure that your costume does not interfere with the safe operation of your motor vehicle. Costumes should not restrict movement, impede vision or prevent anyone in the vehicle from properly applying their seat belt.

    RCMP NL will be on patrol to watch out for all of the little ghosts and goblins, as well as those driving while impaired or in a manner that puts anyone else at risk. Do your part to ensure this Halloween is enjoyable for all!

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI Announce Charges in Domestic Violence and Firearms Case

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Red Valley, Arizona man was charged by indictment with kidnapping, assault and federal firearms offenses stemming from a domestic violence incident in Shiprock, New Mexico.

    Curley Nakai Jr., 23, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge and will remain in custody pending trial.

    According to court records, on August 24, 2024, Nakai allegedly assaulted his girlfriend, Jane Doe, in Shiprock, New Mexico. A witness observed Nakai dragging Jane Doe by her shirt and striking her. Nakai then forced Jane Doe into the backseat of a pickup truck. Concerned for Jane Doe’s safety, the witness followed the pickup and attempted to get identifying information. While following, the witness saw Nakai appear to punch Jane Doe in the vehicle.

    The situation escalated when Nakai and Jane Doe arrived at a supermarket parking lot. As police were contacted by the witness, Nakai exited the pickup and pointed a rifle at her while yelling aggressively. At this point, the witness was approximately thirty feet away with her car window down. After driving past the pickup and parking nearby, the witness observed that Jane Doe managed to exit the vehicle and walk awayy.

    If convicted, Nakai faces up to life in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Davenport Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison for Firearms Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced today to 17 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon and in furtherance of his drug trafficking.

    According to public court documents, in July 2023, Deandre Julian Hensley, 30, possessed a loaded nine-millimeter pistol in his waistband and approximately 7.5 grams of crack cocaine in his pocket when he was arrested for outstanding warrants. The firearm recovered from Hensley was the same firearm that he shot near a downtown Davenport bar earlier in July 2023. Two bystanders were injured in that shooting.

    After completing his term of imprisonment, Hensley will be required to serve a four-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department.

    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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Iowa City Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison for receiving child pornography.

    According to public court documents, law enforcement received multiple CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Cody Andrew Long, 23, had uploaded files containing child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement searched Long’s cell phone and a computer located at Long’s Iowa City residence which revealed approximately 100 images and 25 videos of child sexual abuse material.

    After completing his term of imprisonment, Long will be required to serve an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Long was also ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution. In addition, Long will be required to register as a sex offender.

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department and the Johnson County Joint Forensic Analysis Cyber Team.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Father and Son from New Jersey Arrested for Actions During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

            WASHINGTON — Two men from New Jersey have been arrested on various felony and misdemeanor charges stemming from their alleged conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. Their alleged actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

            Richard Andrews, 72, of Brick, New Jersey, is charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with a felony offense of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder. In addition to the felonies, Richard Andrews is charged with misdemeanor offenses of knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds and disorderly conduct in a capitol building.

            Also charged is Keith Andrews, 49, of Howell, New Jersey. Keith Andrews is charged with misdemeanor offenses of knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in any of the Capitol buildings.

            The FBI arrested the two men on Oct. 29, 2024, in New Jersey, and they will make their initial appearance in the District of New Jersey.

            According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, Richard and Keith Andrews attended the “Stop the Steal” rally at the Ellipse in Washington, D.C., before proceeding to the restricted Capitol grounds. Richard Andrews wore a black zip-up jacket, blue tee, and gray knit skull cap, while Keith Andrews was dressed in a dark gray hoodie, black tee with white lettering, jeans, dark sneakers, and a camouflage “Trump 2020” hat. Keith also carried a camouflage backpack.

            Upon arriving at the Capitol, the two men ascended the north scaffolding to reach the Upper West Terrace. At approximately 2:49 p.m., it is alleged that Keith Andrews entered the Capitol through a window near the Senate Wing Door as Capitol Police struggled to hold back the crowd. Keith then momentarily exited, encouraging others to enter, and reentered minutes later. While inside, Keith stayed in the Senate Wing hallway for ten minutes, encouraging additional rioters to come in before leaving the building himself temporarily.

            Keith Andrews then reentered the Capitol at about 3:01 p.m., making his way to the Crypt while using his phone. He allegedly remained inside for approximately twelve minutes before exiting at 3:13 p.m. Shortly after, police efforts to secure the Senate Wing intensified, including by closing the shutters on the window Keith had used to enter the building.

            Later, at about 3:16 p.m., it is alleged that Richard Andrews threw a chair through the closed shutters, reopening them and striking an officer in the process.

            Minutes later, Keith allegedly reentered the Capitol a third time, engaging in a brief dispute with officers trying to clear the building before exiting by 3:20 p.m. Later that afternoon, as officers tried to remove rioters from the Upper West Terrace, Richard Andrews shoved a police officer on the head. In response, officers deployed a chemical agent, causing Richard to retreat into the crowd.

            This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey.

            This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Newark and Washington Field Offices. Richard Andrews was identified as BOLO (Be on the Lookout) # 446 on the FBI’s seeking information images. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

            In the 45 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,532 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 571 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

            Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

            A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Louisville Man Pleads Guilty to Carjacking Resulting in Death

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Louisville, KY – This week, a Louisville, Kentucky, man pleaded guilty to carjacking which resulted in the death of teenage motorist.  

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department, and Shelby County Sheriff Mark Moore made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Michael Dewitt, pleaded guilty to a single count indictment charging him with carjacking resulting in death. According to court records, Dewitt committed a carjacking at gunpoint on March 1, 2021, and stole a 2011 Ford F350 from its owner in Simpsonville, Kentucky. During the immediate flight from the carjacking, and while still in possession of the stolen truck, Dewitt collided with a vehicle on Dixie Highway in Louisville, causing the death of 17-year-old.

    Sentencing is scheduled for January 27, 2025. The maximum penalty is life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. If the plea agreement in the case is accepted by the court, the defendant will be sentenced to serve 29 years and 4 months in prison.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is being investigated by the FBI Louisville Field Office, the Louisville Metro Police Department, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Bonar and Mac Shannon are prosecuting this case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Happy Valley-Goose Bay — Happy Valley Goose Bay investigates mischief, seeks public’s assistance

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Happy Valley Goose Bay RCMP is seeking assistance from the public following a recent incident that occurred on Mitchell Street in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

    In the early morning hours of October 24, 2024, around 1:30 a.m., a suspect approached a parked vehicle in a residential driveway with a gas can in hand and poured a substance from the gas can into the gas tank of the vehicle.

    See surveillance images attached.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone having information about this crime is asked to contact Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP at 709-896-3383 . To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Samson Cree Nation — Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit investigate homicide in Maskwacis – Update

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Jan. 28, 2024, at 11:30 a.m., Maskwacis RCMP was called to assist EMS with a 25-year-old male. The male was transported to the hospital where he was declared deceased. The circumstances of the victim’s death were considered suspicious.

    RCMP Major Crimes Unit (MCU) took carriage of the investigation, and the autopsy determined that the manner of death was a homicide.

    On Sept. 28, 2024, RCMP MCU arrested a 24-year-old individual and a 25-year-old individual, both residents of Maskwacis, Alta. The 24-year-old individual has been charged with second-degree murder.

    After a judicial interim release Hearing, the 24-year-old individual was remanded to appear in Alberta Court of Justice in Wetaskiwin on Oct. 3, 2024.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton — Alberta RCMP coordinate with communities to curtail copper wire crooks

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Alberta RCMP is launching a community initiative in response to concerns about ongoing copper wire theft in eastern Alberta.

    To reduce the amount of theft, the RCMP’s Eastern and Central District’s Crime Reduction Units, along with K Division Criminal Analysis Section (K/DCAS), and Community Safety and Well-being Branch will be working with industry partners to determine areas that are being targeted and develop strategies to investigate, identify and ultimately arrest the individuals who are causing the most harm related to copper wire and precious metal thefts.

    Precious metals like copper are used in a variety of projects ranging from large scale industrial sites like power plants, cellphone towers and pipelines to smaller uses like the wiring in homes.

    Copper wire and other precious metals can be difficult to track making them ideal targets for criminals to steal. The theft of copper wire can have a large impact on the public; whether it’s having spare wire stolen from your personal property or damage caused to vital infrastructure across the province.

    Last year, in Alberta losses from copper wire theft including damages to property was in excess of 10 million dollars. There are a variety of things that the public and companies can do to help reduce the likelihood of copper wire theft in your communities:

    • Consider installing an alarm system with remote monitoring of surveillance cameras.
    • Ensure each entrance and exit of your commercial property has proper lighting and surveillance cameras clearly visible to deter criminal activity.
    • Arrange to have your precious metals laser engraved, so they can be easier identified and returned if recovered.
    • For metal purchasers, be cautious about purchasing material from unknown or suspicious sellers.
    • Always secure your valuables in a secure area.
    • Invest in fencing for extra protection and ensure it’s well-maintained
    • Always report suspicious persons you see at work sites, or on your property.

    “The reality of the situation is because copper wire is so common and can be almost impossible to identify if it isn’t laser engraved, catching and charging copper wire thieves can be very difficult,” said Staff Sergeant John Pike District Advisory non-commissioned officer of the RCMP Eastern Alberta District. “There are thousands of sites using copper wire, and we can’t be at all of them. That’s why it’s so important for everyone do their part whether it is securing your property, reporting suspicious activity or questioning sellers.”

    If you have any information about crimes in your community, please call your local RCMP detachment. 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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: John D’or Prairie — Alberta RCMP Community Response Team arrest four individuals

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Oct. 1, 2024, the Alberta RCMP Community Response Team engaged in a proactive traffic stop in John D’or Prairie with a vehicle that had been suspected of being involved in a recent occurrence in the community. During the police interaction with the occupants of the vehicle, the driver drove into two police cars and attempted to evade police. A pursuit was initiated and the suspect vehicle became disabled in a field south of John D’or Prairie, where five suspects fled on foot.

    A sixth occupant was located in the vehicle and was identified and determined to have been the victim of kidnapping that took place immediately prior to the traffic stop. Four suspects were arrested with assistance from Fort Vermillion and John D’or Prairie RCMP Detachments as well as RCMP regional Police Dog Services. A sawed-off shotgun and a replica handgun were seized during the search for the suspects. One suspect remains at large; his identity is known and a warrant for his arrest is being sought.

    The victim of the kidnapping was airlifted to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

    A 29-year-old individual, a 21-year-old individual, a 24-year-old individual and a 21-year-old individual, all residents John D’or Prairie, have been charged with the following offences:

    • Kidnapping
    • Forcible confinement
    • Assault causing bodily harm
    • Flight from Police Officer
    • Failure to stop after accident
    • Dangerous Operation of a motor vehicle
    • Using a firearm in the commission of an offence
    • Careless use of a firearm
    • Pointing a firearm
    • Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose x2
    • Unauthorized possession of a firearm
    • Possession knowing it is unauthorized
    • Unauthorized possession of firearm in motor vehicle
    • Possession of a prohibited firearm with ammunition
    • Assault police officer with a weapon

    All four suspects were taken before a justice of the peace and were remanded into custody. They are scheduled to appear on Oct. 9, 2024, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Fahler, Alta.

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