Category: Police

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Homicide investigation launched after death in Tūrangi

Source: New Zealand Police

A woman has died following an incident in Tūrangi this morning.

Emergency services were called to an address on Hinerangi Street at about 6:30am, where the victim was found deceased.

A homicide investigation is underway and a scene guard is at the property.

We would like to hear from any witnesses, or anybody with CCTV footage from the incident.

You can contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online.

Please reference the file number 250620/6721.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media advisory: Police Media Centre closing at 6pm, Sunday 22 June

Source: New Zealand Police

The Police Media Centre will close at 6pm on Sunday 22 June due to staffing constraints.

Prior to that time, we will be operating with reduced staff numbers and prioritising urgent/serious incidents.

After 6pm, information on any significant public safety issues will be released proactively.

The centre will reopen at the usual time of 6am on Monday 23 June.

We appreciate our media colleagues’ continued patience and understanding.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal Crash, Millers Flat

Source: New Zealand Police

A person has died after a single-vehicle crash on a farm near Millers Flat, Central Otago, overnight.

Emergency services were called to the property about 10pm after a vehicle rolled.

Sadly, one person died at the scene. Three others were taken to hospital with minor-to-moderate injuries.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Police will be providing support to the victim’s family.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Friday essay: ‘my heart is full of sparks’ – as war escalates, can I hope for Iran’s liberation from a tyrannical regime?

Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Hessom Razavi, Clinical Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, The University of Western Australia

We are at a dinner party in suburban Perth, a home away from home for our diaspora. As guests arrive, a Persian ballad plays in the background: Morq-e Sahar (Dawn Bird), a freedom song, a century-old protest against dictatorships and tyranny in Iran. This version was sung by the late Mohammad-Reza Shajarian, Iran’s most decorated maestro.

Dawn bird, lament!
Make my brand burn even more.
With the sparks from your sigh, break
And turn this cage upside down.

Shajarian’s virtuoso voice frames an old question. One I’ve heard, it seems, at every Iranian gathering since my childhood. It hangs in the air like a cloud, unanswered, as guests greet each other with customary bowing and rooboosi (cheek kissing). We settle around a table laden with âjil (trail mix), fruit and wine, the smell of saffron rice and ghorme sabzi (herb stew) all around.

For me, the scene is both familial and familiar. As is the question, which circles back around. “When will this regime change?” someone asks. The “regime” is Nezâm-e Jomhuri-ye Eslâmi-ye Irân, or the Regime of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

A missing voice

Since the launch of Israel’s Operation Rising Lion against Iran last week, there has been a voice sometimes missing in the mainstream coverage – that of the Iranian people themselves.

“Israel is not our enemy, the regime is our enemy,” chant many Iranians in Tehran and in the diaspora, a common sentiment in our community. They cite the regime that they have endured for 46 years since the 1979 Islamic Revolution: a government most of them oppose and reject, with the vast majority of Iranians preferring democratic, if not secular, reform.

I hear some Iranians, on social media and in conversation with people who live there, commending Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu for assassinating Iran’s top military brass. These are the leaders of the Sepah, or the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), the most powerful branch of the Iranian Armed Forces. Together with the mullahs – Iran’s Shia Muslim clerical class – they form the backbone of Iran’s government and economy.

So far, Israel has assassinated Hossein Salami, the head of the Revolutionary Guards, as well as Mohammad Kazemi, its intelligence chief, plus senior nuclear scientists and dozens of other officers. Israel has also indicated an interest in killing Ayatollah Ali Khomenei, Iran’s supreme leader.

“Damet garm, aghayeh Netanyahu,” some Iranians are saying, literally “may your breath be warm”, or “good job, Netanyahu”. Amid the terror and confusion – not to mention the civilian deaths, so far, of over 200 Iranians – there is a rare and distinct sense of hope.

State of corruption

In view of Israel’s ongoing campaign in Gaza, this support for Israel may come as a surprise to many Australians, and Western liberals in general. Certainly, reconciling Israel’s role in Gaza versus Iran is jarring.

But for now, I hear some Iranians saying “maybe our regime can finally be toppled”. Maybe Iran can reclaim its place in the international community, as the proud and prosperous nation it should be? As this crisis escalates, as buildings collapse and distressed Tehranis, including my family, flee the capital for the safety of the countryside, there is a heady sense of possibility.

Wing-tied nightingale come out of the corner of your cage, and
Sing the song of freedom for human kind.
With your fiery breath ignite,
The breath of this peopled land …

I understand the allure of this hope; to an extent, I feel it myself. My family lives in Australia, not Iran, precisely because of the Iranian regime’s tyranny. We fled Iran in 1983 due to political persecution, after most of the adults in our extended family were arbitrarily arrested and imprisoned by the government.

Two of my imprisoned uncles and one of my aunties were executed. Another uncle was beaten to death in custody. My grandfather, a noble old man, was imprisoned and tortured. We were far from unique; during the 1980s, the government imprisoned tens of thousands of its own people, executing many thousands of them.

Little has changed since then. The Iranian regime and the Revolutionary Guards have shown a pervasive disregard for human rights. They execute more of their own people than any country except China. They are a world leader in the use of torture; they deny freedoms of expression and press, association and assembly; they discriminate against women, girls, religious minorities, LGBTI people, and refugees. Tightly controlled elections ensure the success of desired candidates.

Freedom House, a nonprofit organisation based in the US, gives Iran a score of 11 out of 100 for its provision of political rights and civil liberties. For many Iranians, it felt overdue when, in 2019, the US listed the Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organisation, a decision followed by other countries, including Canada and Sweden. In 2023, the European parliament overwhelmingly voted for a resolution to do the same, with calls to expedite this motion in early 2025.

In parallel to their human rights abuses, the Revolutionary Guard has hobbled the Iranian economy. Their corruption, financial incompetence and operation of black markets have compounded the effects of international sanctions. Consequently, the Iranian rial hit a historic low this year. It is now worth around one twentieth of its value in 2015.

People’s life savings have dwindled in value, rendering older Iranians financially vulnerable. Inflation was 38.7% in May of this year, down from highs of over 40%. My family in Iran experience this as grocery and commodity prices that may rise in a single day, higher in the afternoon than in the morning. Some cities have experienced water cuts and power outages.

While it hasn’t yet qualified as a failed state, Iran has been failing.

All of this has occurred despite the country being richly endowed with the second- and third-highest natural gas and oil reserves in the world, respectively. Iran has a GDP of over $US404 billion – 36th in the world. Its youth are highly educated and literate, with more women enrolled in universities than men.

Rather than accelerating the nation’s domestic development, however, the Iranian government has by its own admission spent tens of billions of dollars to expand its empire by funding terrorist proxies: Hamas in Palestine, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the recently deposed Assad regime in Syria, and Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The Iranian people have suffered financially, but the Revolutionary Guards have not. They are estimated to control at least 10%, and up to 50%, of the country’s total economy, including up to an estimated 50% share of Iran’s US$50 billion per year oil profits. They have achieved this by commandeering an industrial empire, made up of hundreds of commercial companies, trusts, subsidiaries and nominally charitable foundations.

A further US$2 billion or more per year comes from the government’s military budget, with periodic boosts during crises. Add to this the alleged shadowy operation of black markets, extortion, and the smuggling of alcohol, narcotics and weapons, accounting for an estimated US$12 billion per year in revenue.

Contemplating this corruption, I am reminded of an anecdote from a personal associate who worked for a firm affiliated with the Revolutionary Guard. They shared stories of officers, the nation’s purported “guardians of Islam”, hosting parties where alcohol, firearms and sex workers were readily available.

My associate recounted several instances of fraud and theft, one of them monumental in scale. In this “tea smuggling scandal”, the Revolutionary Guard defrauded billions of dollars from a government fund by illicitly exchanging some funds on the open market, falsely labelling cheap tea to on-sell as superior quality tea, and falsely labelling domestically produced machinery as “Made in Germany”.

“They’re untouchable, and they know it”, my associate said. Another Iranian community member described them to me as “Iran’s super-mafia”.

Speaking to family in Iran, they say many of the middle tier Revolutionary Guards live in their own shahrak-ha (towns) with dedicated markets, schools and resorts. Many of the Guards’ elite, meanwhile, live in mansions in the exclusive parts of north Tehran, with children who pursue conspicuously American “lifestyles of the rich and famous”. For an organisation that leads the chants of “marg bar America!” (death to America), one wonders if they see the irony in this.

Turn our dark night to dawn

I find myself sickened by the events of this war, and the harm it is causing. Struck with anxiety, some of our family members in Tehran haven’t slept for days. “The Israeli bombardments are non-stop, and so loud,” one family member told me.

This week our extended family has struggled frantically to leave Tehran. Petrol is hard to come by and, in a mass exodus, the bumper-to-bumper traffic stands still for hours. I know some of the neighbourhoods being bombed; we lived in one of them in my childhood.

“For every military commander that’s assassinated, a whole building might collapse, and with a dozen civilians trapped or killed,” another person told me, intimating that the civilian toll is higher than official counts.

I am also worried about the raised hopes of Iranians. I have seen this before, when a spark – sometimes an inspirational act of courage from an ordinary citizen – leads to public surges in solidarity. At these moments during my childhood, my parents would tell me that the regime’s time was limited, it’s downfall inevitable. Iranians would see better days and people power would prevail.

Truth and goodness rise like cream, my Dad would say, as if echoing Dr Martin Luther King’s arc of the moral universe bending towards justice.

A beautiful sentiment no doubt, but one that has become difficult to believe over time. It often appears that the universe’s arc bends towards power, not justice. Fairness seems the exception, hardly the rule. At the time, Dad’s reassurances were protective, even noble. But as the 1979 revolution and its aftermath have shown, might beats right most days of the week.

The cruelty of the cruel and the tyranny of the hunter
Have blown away my nest.
O God, O Heavens, O Nature,
Turn our dark night to dawn.

As I explain to Australian friends: how can a people surpass a government that has (1) the military on its side, (2) a stranglehold on oil revenue, and (3) a purported mandate from God?

Guns, money and a holy book – a hard trifecta to crack, and powerful enough to attract a sufficient minority of cronies, bottom feeders and sycophants.

What’s the size of this ruling minority? It’s difficult to be sure, but a 2023 survey of 158,000 respondents within Iran found that only 15% supported the Islamic Republic. Small, but sufficient to produce crowds burning American and Israeli flags. I’ve always marvelled at the regime’s ability to manufacture these images; I’m told by associates that they now use AI to produce some of these.

Women Life Freedom

As current events unfold, I find myself deeply sceptical of all the political actors, whether Iranian, Israeli, American, Arab or Russian. Since the Islamic revolution in 1979, none of them have shown any serious interest in supporting democratic reform in Iran. “They’ve all profited from this government,” a senior community member told me. “Why would that change now?”

For the sake of sanity, I find myself searching for credible sources of hope. The only one I settle on is faith in the Iranian people themselves. This the culture that has surrounded me since childhood, the qualities I’ve seen first hand in my countrywomen and men, whether young or old, home or abroad, Muslim, Bahai or secular: a resilience, a resourcefulness, a propensity for joy, a confidence and pride in culture, and an ability to prevail, over and again.

It’s a new spring, roses are in bloom…
…O rose, look towards this lover,
Look again, again, again.

These qualities are periodically staged for the world to see. Iranian people have not taken their oppression lying down, rising in (mainly) peaceful protests. There have been some 10 mass protests since the inception of the Islamic Republic in 1979. The largest of these was the Green Movement in 2009, when it was estimated that over a million citizens marched in Tehran alone. As recently as May 2025, strikes took place in over 150 cities, involving hundreds of thousands of workers.

For the most part, these demonstrations have been met with severe repression by state authorities. One episode, from September 2022, deserves special mention. The world watched in horror as the regime cracked down on young women in Iran. This was their response to the Zan Zendegi Azadi (Woman Life Freedom) movement, where mass protests were triggered by the death in custody of Mahsa Jina Amini.

Amini was a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman who had been detained by the government’s “Morality Police” for wearing an improper hijab. Three days into her detention she died under suspicious circumstances. A leaked CT scan showed a skull fracture and brain haemorrhage. This corroborated eyewitness accounts that Amini had been severely beaten by police.

Intentionally or not, a dress code infringement had been punished by death. Even for Iranians long accustomed to state violence, this was too much. Mass protests erupted in more than 100 cities across all of Iran’s 31 provinces.

The protests were led by women, many of them defiantly removing their headscarves. True to its nature, the regime responded violently. In the months that followed, over 20,000 protesters were imprisoned, many later testifying to having been tortured through electric shock, flogging, waterboarding and rape.

Human Rights Watch estimates that over 500 civilians – including 68 children and adolescents – were killed by security forces, which included the paramilitary Basijis, Revolutionary Guard Corps, police and prison guards.

Things would get darker. That December the regime was accused of deliberately poisoning over 1,200 students at Kharazmi and Ark universities on the eve of a planned protest. Soon thereafter, there were allegations of toxic gas attacks against thousands of schoolgirls, in apparent retaliation for removing their hijabs. By 2024, the UN had accused Iran of a coordinated campaign of crimes against humanity, a claim rejected by the regime.

As an eye surgeon, I was distressed to read a letter signed by over 100 Iranian ophthalmologists detailing eye injuries among protesters. The letter alleged that security forces had deliberately targeted people’s eyes with teargas canisters, rubber bullets and shotgun fire, resulting in traumatic injuries and irreversible blindness among protesters.

Dew drops are falling from my cloudy eyes
This cage, like my heart, is narrow and dark.
O fiery sigh set alight this cage
O fate, do not pick the flower of my life.

There were separate reports of women’s faces and genitals being targeted by shotgun fire. The regime appeared to have interfered with medical services: protestors transported to police stations in ambulances were arrested after surgery or denied treatment. Doctors were reportedly coerced to supply false death certificates to disguise the true cause of protestors’ deaths. The British Medical Journal documented healthcare professionals being arrested, intimidated, kidnapped or killed in retaliation for treating protesters.

If we didn’t know it already, Zan Zendegi Azadi reminded us of the risks, if not futility, of advocating for change in Iran.

When mass civil movements like this, performed ten times over, have not worked, what alternatives are the people left with? Brutalised and impoverished by their own government, should we be surprised when a traditionally Islamic people welcome a Jewish state’s decapitation of their political leaders? Is it not tempting, even if lazy, to invoke the historical comparison of Cyrus the Great, Persian King of the Achaemenid Empire, who freed the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity?

For the people of Iran and Israel – at the risk of naivety and romanticism – are we approaching an age of karma?

O rose, look towards this lover,
Look again, again, again.
O heart-lost bird, shorten, shorten, shorten,
The tale of separation.

An uncertain scenario

Regarding Operation Rising Lion, it is safe to say that Iranians, like any healthy community, hold a diversity of views.

At one end of the spectrum, those who unconditionally condemn Israel’s attack should consider that the Iranian government has stockpiled over 400 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium. While not enough to build a nuclear warhead, this is far more enriched uranium than is needed for peaceful purposes.

The Iranian government has also vowed to “wipe Israel off the map” for decades. Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei lauded the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas on Israeli civilians. In other words, Iran has said to Israel “we want to annihilate you, we’ll celebrate your deaths, and we could do it with nuclear weapons if we wished to”.

Following Iran’s recent breach of its nonproliferation obligations to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Israel says it has acted lawfully in attacking Iran for self-defense – a claim disputed by some international law experts. Even if one does not agree with Israel’s action, it is evident that they’ve long been baited by Iran.

On the other side of the coin, Iranians who salute Israel and the US as their saviours should take caution. The US director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard declared as recently as March 2025 that there was no evidence that Iran was actively pursuing nuclear weapons, a finding corroborated by over a dozen other US intelligence elements including the CIA, the National Security Agency, and the Insitute for Defense Analyses.

One cannot ignore the disturbing echoes of the 2003 war on Iraq, where the absence of evidence for weapons of mass destruction was intentionally misrepresented by the US and UK governments. The consequences for Iraq have been disastrous.

As for Netanyahu and his administration, they have shown a ruthless pursuit of narrow self-interest in Gaza. The deaths and injuries inflicted by the Israeli Defence Forces on more than 50,000 Palestinian children appear to have done nothing to quell their ambitions.

With regards to Netanyahu himself, he is facing corruption charges that could result in his domestic imprisonment and he has more recently been the subject of an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court for war crimes, including starvation and murder.

What can Iranians learn from this? The evidence suggests this could be a war of passion and opportunism for Israel, rather than one of legitimate self-defence. In any case, they are not waging it for the benefit of Iranians.

Israel has a tendency to set ambitious military goals that it can’t achieve. While it promises Operation Rising Lion will soon end, its track record suggests otherwise.

A protracted conflict would see Iran’s civilian toll rise much higher. Power outages and fuel shortages have already begun; what happens once water, medical and food scarcity set in? Since Iran doesn’t allow many international aid agencies onto its soil, who will come to the rescue of Iranians as things escalate?

Truth’s life has come to an end
Faith and fidelity have been replaced by the shield of war.
Lover’s lament and beloved’s coyness,
Are but lies and have no power.

Even if Israel succeeds in capturing or killing Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, what happens next? With the Revolutionary Guard’s roots in place, there is no guarantee, and in fact a low likelihood, of true democratic reform. In recent times, foreign interference in the region has not gone well. Look at Libya, Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria: all evidence of catastrophic worsening after the removal of autocrats.

This is a complex and uncertain scenario with little room for moral grandstanding. Disabling Iran’s nuclear and ballistic capabilities could be a net win, but the manner in which it is being done sets a dangerous precedent. For the Iranian people, Netanyahu’s ambitions could ultimately prove both heroic and villainous.

The cup of the rich is full of pure wine,
Our cup is filled with our heart’s blood.
O anxious heart, cry out aloud
And avoid those who have powerful hands.

As I watch coverage of the war, I find myself drifting back to Shajarian’s voice and to Morq-e Sahar, probably for distraction and comfort. What is real is my faith in my fellow Iranians. Many examples comes to mind. One, during a trip to Iran, was when I stayed with family at a roadhouse. That evening, we heard music emanating from the courtyard and followed some steps into an dark basement beneath the accommodation.

There we found a large gathering of young Iranians, two dozen or more men and women risking the law by hanging out together to sing. We joined them as strangers, seated on the floor and holding hands at times. In the dim light, the group sang and sang, a couple of them playing instruments.

I can’t say I knew the songs or comprehended all the lyrics; I didn’t need to, to understand their meaning. You may force our people underground, you may cage them, bombard and even kill them. But you will never extinguish their eternal Persian spirit.

O rosy-cheeked cup-bearer, give the fiery water,
Play a joyful tune, O charming friend.
O sad nightingale lament from your cage.
Because of your grief my heart is
Full of sparks, sparks, sparks.

Hessom Razavi does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Friday essay: ‘my heart is full of sparks’ – as war escalates, can I hope for Iran’s liberation from a tyrannical regime? – https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-my-heart-is-full-of-sparks-as-war-escalates-can-i-hope-for-irans-liberation-from-a-tyrannical-regime-259275

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Friday essay: ‘my heart is full of sparks’ – as war escalates, can I hope for Iran’s liberation from a tyrannical regime?

Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Hessom Razavi, Clinical Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, The University of Western Australia

We are at a dinner party in suburban Perth, a home away from home for our diaspora. As guests arrive, a Persian ballad plays in the background: Morq-e Sahar (Dawn Bird), a freedom song, a century-old protest against dictatorships and tyranny in Iran. This version was sung by the late Mohammad-Reza Shajarian, Iran’s most decorated maestro.

Dawn bird, lament!
Make my brand burn even more.
With the sparks from your sigh, break
And turn this cage upside down.

Shajarian’s virtuoso voice frames an old question. One I’ve heard, it seems, at every Iranian gathering since my childhood. It hangs in the air like a cloud, unanswered, as guests greet each other with customary bowing and rooboosi (cheek kissing). We settle around a table laden with âjil (trail mix), fruit and wine, the smell of saffron rice and ghorme sabzi (herb stew) all around.

For me, the scene is both familial and familiar. As is the question, which circles back around. “When will this regime change?” someone asks. The “regime” is Nezâm-e Jomhuri-ye Eslâmi-ye Irân, or the Regime of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

A missing voice

Since the launch of Israel’s Operation Rising Lion against Iran last week, there has been a voice sometimes missing in the mainstream coverage – that of the Iranian people themselves.

“Israel is not our enemy, the regime is our enemy,” chant many Iranians in Tehran and in the diaspora, a common sentiment in our community. They cite the regime that they have endured for 46 years since the 1979 Islamic Revolution: a government most of them oppose and reject, with the vast majority of Iranians preferring democratic, if not secular, reform.

I hear some Iranians, on social media and in conversation with people who live there, commending Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu for assassinating Iran’s top military brass. These are the leaders of the Sepah, or the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), the most powerful branch of the Iranian Armed Forces. Together with the mullahs – Iran’s Shia Muslim clerical class – they form the backbone of Iran’s government and economy.

So far, Israel has assassinated Hossein Salami, the head of the Revolutionary Guards, as well as Mohammad Kazemi, its intelligence chief, plus senior nuclear scientists and dozens of other officers. Israel has also indicated an interest in killing Ayatollah Ali Khomenei, Iran’s supreme leader.

“Damet garm, aghayeh Netanyahu,” some Iranians are saying, literally “may your breath be warm”, or “good job, Netanyahu”. Amid the terror and confusion – not to mention the civilian deaths, so far, of over 200 Iranians – there is a rare and distinct sense of hope.

State of corruption

In view of Israel’s ongoing campaign in Gaza, this support for Israel may come as a surprise to many Australians, and Western liberals in general. Certainly, reconciling Israel’s role in Gaza versus Iran is jarring.

But for now, I hear some Iranians saying “maybe our regime can finally be toppled”. Maybe Iran can reclaim its place in the international community, as the proud and prosperous nation it should be? As this crisis escalates, as buildings collapse and distressed Tehranis, including my family, flee the capital for the safety of the countryside, there is a heady sense of possibility.

Wing-tied nightingale come out of the corner of your cage, and
Sing the song of freedom for human kind.
With your fiery breath ignite,
The breath of this peopled land …

I understand the allure of this hope; to an extent, I feel it myself. My family lives in Australia, not Iran, precisely because of the Iranian regime’s tyranny. We fled Iran in 1983 due to political persecution, after most of the adults in our extended family were arbitrarily arrested and imprisoned by the government.

Two of my imprisoned uncles and one of my aunties were executed. Another uncle was beaten to death in custody. My grandfather, a noble old man, was imprisoned and tortured. We were far from unique; during the 1980s, the government imprisoned tens of thousands of its own people, executing many thousands of them.

Little has changed since then. The Iranian regime and the Revolutionary Guards have shown a pervasive disregard for human rights. They execute more of their own people than any country except China. They are a world leader in the use of torture; they deny freedoms of expression and press, association and assembly; they discriminate against women, girls, religious minorities, LGBTI people, and refugees. Tightly controlled elections ensure the success of desired candidates.

Freedom House, a nonprofit organisation based in the US, gives Iran a score of 11 out of 100 for its provision of political rights and civil liberties. For many Iranians, it felt overdue when, in 2019, the US listed the Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organisation, a decision followed by other countries, including Canada and Sweden. In 2023, the European parliament overwhelmingly voted for a resolution to do the same, with calls to expedite this motion in early 2025.

In parallel to their human rights abuses, the Revolutionary Guard has hobbled the Iranian economy. Their corruption, financial incompetence and operation of black markets have compounded the effects of international sanctions. Consequently, the Iranian rial hit a historic low this year. It is now worth around one twentieth of its value in 2015.

People’s life savings have dwindled in value, rendering older Iranians financially vulnerable. Inflation was 38.7% in May of this year, down from highs of over 40%. My family in Iran experience this as grocery and commodity prices that may rise in a single day, higher in the afternoon than in the morning. Some cities have experienced water cuts and power outages.

While it hasn’t yet qualified as a failed state, Iran has been failing.

All of this has occurred despite the country being richly endowed with the second- and third-highest natural gas and oil reserves in the world, respectively. Iran has a GDP of over $US404 billion – 36th in the world. Its youth are highly educated and literate, with more women enrolled in universities than men.

Rather than accelerating the nation’s domestic development, however, the Iranian government has by its own admission spent tens of billions of dollars to expand its empire by funding terrorist proxies: Hamas in Palestine, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the recently deposed Assad regime in Syria, and Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The Iranian people have suffered financially, but the Revolutionary Guards have not. They are estimated to control at least 10%, and up to 50%, of the country’s total economy, including up to an estimated 50% share of Iran’s US$50 billion per year oil profits. They have achieved this by commandeering an industrial empire, made up of hundreds of commercial companies, trusts, subsidiaries and nominally charitable foundations.

A further US$2 billion or more per year comes from the government’s military budget, with periodic boosts during crises. Add to this the alleged shadowy operation of black markets, extortion, and the smuggling of alcohol, narcotics and weapons, accounting for an estimated US$12 billion per year in revenue.

Contemplating this corruption, I am reminded of an anecdote from a personal associate who worked for a firm affiliated with the Revolutionary Guard. They shared stories of officers, the nation’s purported “guardians of Islam”, hosting parties where alcohol, firearms and sex workers were readily available.

My associate recounted several instances of fraud and theft, one of them monumental in scale. In this “tea smuggling scandal”, the Revolutionary Guard defrauded billions of dollars from a government fund by illicitly exchanging some funds on the open market, falsely labelling cheap tea to on-sell as superior quality tea, and falsely labelling domestically produced machinery as “Made in Germany”.

“They’re untouchable, and they know it”, my associate said. Another Iranian community member described them to me as “Iran’s super-mafia”.

Speaking to family in Iran, they say many of the middle tier Revolutionary Guards live in their own shahrak-ha (towns) with dedicated markets, schools and resorts. Many of the Guards’ elite, meanwhile, live in mansions in the exclusive parts of north Tehran, with children who pursue conspicuously American “lifestyles of the rich and famous”. For an organisation that leads the chants of “marg bar America!” (death to America), one wonders if they see the irony in this.

Turn our dark night to dawn

I find myself sickened by the events of this war, and the harm it is causing. Struck with anxiety, some of our family members in Tehran haven’t slept for days. “The Israeli bombardments are non-stop, and so loud,” one family member told me.

This week our extended family has struggled frantically to leave Tehran. Petrol is hard to come by and, in a mass exodus, the bumper-to-bumper traffic stands still for hours. I know some of the neighbourhoods being bombed; we lived in one of them in my childhood.

“For every military commander that’s assassinated, a whole building might collapse, and with a dozen civilians trapped or killed,” another person told me, intimating that the civilian toll is higher than official counts.

I am also worried about the raised hopes of Iranians. I have seen this before, when a spark – sometimes an inspirational act of courage from an ordinary citizen – leads to public surges in solidarity. At these moments during my childhood, my parents would tell me that the regime’s time was limited, it’s downfall inevitable. Iranians would see better days and people power would prevail.

Truth and goodness rise like cream, my Dad would say, as if echoing Dr Martin Luther King’s arc of the moral universe bending towards justice.

A beautiful sentiment no doubt, but one that has become difficult to believe over time. It often appears that the universe’s arc bends towards power, not justice. Fairness seems the exception, hardly the rule. At the time, Dad’s reassurances were protective, even noble. But as the 1979 revolution and its aftermath have shown, might beats right most days of the week.

The cruelty of the cruel and the tyranny of the hunter
Have blown away my nest.
O God, O Heavens, O Nature,
Turn our dark night to dawn.

As I explain to Australian friends: how can a people surpass a government that has (1) the military on its side, (2) a stranglehold on oil revenue, and (3) a purported mandate from God?

Guns, money and a holy book – a hard trifecta to crack, and powerful enough to attract a sufficient minority of cronies, bottom feeders and sycophants.

What’s the size of this ruling minority? It’s difficult to be sure, but a 2023 survey of 158,000 respondents within Iran found that only 15% supported the Islamic Republic. Small, but sufficient to produce crowds burning American and Israeli flags. I’ve always marvelled at the regime’s ability to manufacture these images; I’m told by associates that they now use AI to produce some of these.

Women Life Freedom

As current events unfold, I find myself deeply sceptical of all the political actors, whether Iranian, Israeli, American, Arab or Russian. Since the Islamic revolution in 1979, none of them have shown any serious interest in supporting democratic reform in Iran. “They’ve all profited from this government,” a senior community member told me. “Why would that change now?”

For the sake of sanity, I find myself searching for credible sources of hope. The only one I settle on is faith in the Iranian people themselves. This the culture that has surrounded me since childhood, the qualities I’ve seen first hand in my countrywomen and men, whether young or old, home or abroad, Muslim, Bahai or secular: a resilience, a resourcefulness, a propensity for joy, a confidence and pride in culture, and an ability to prevail, over and again.

It’s a new spring, roses are in bloom…
…O rose, look towards this lover,
Look again, again, again.

These qualities are periodically staged for the world to see. Iranian people have not taken their oppression lying down, rising in (mainly) peaceful protests. There have been some 10 mass protests since the inception of the Islamic Republic in 1979. The largest of these was the Green Movement in 2009, when it was estimated that over a million citizens marched in Tehran alone. As recently as May 2025, strikes took place in over 150 cities, involving hundreds of thousands of workers.

For the most part, these demonstrations have been met with severe repression by state authorities. One episode, from September 2022, deserves special mention. The world watched in horror as the regime cracked down on young women in Iran. This was their response to the Zan Zendegi Azadi (Woman Life Freedom) movement, where mass protests were triggered by the death in custody of Mahsa Jina Amini.

Amini was a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman who had been detained by the government’s “Morality Police” for wearing an improper hijab. Three days into her detention she died under suspicious circumstances. A leaked CT scan showed a skull fracture and brain haemorrhage. This corroborated eyewitness accounts that Amini had been severely beaten by police.

Intentionally or not, a dress code infringement had been punished by death. Even for Iranians long accustomed to state violence, this was too much. Mass protests erupted in more than 100 cities across all of Iran’s 31 provinces.

The protests were led by women, many of them defiantly removing their headscarves. True to its nature, the regime responded violently. In the months that followed, over 20,000 protesters were imprisoned, many later testifying to having been tortured through electric shock, flogging, waterboarding and rape.

Human Rights Watch estimates that over 500 civilians – including 68 children and adolescents – were killed by security forces, which included the paramilitary Basijis, Revolutionary Guard Corps, police and prison guards.

Things would get darker. That December the regime was accused of deliberately poisoning over 1,200 students at Kharazmi and Ark universities on the eve of a planned protest. Soon thereafter, there were allegations of toxic gas attacks against thousands of schoolgirls, in apparent retaliation for removing their hijabs. By 2024, the UN had accused Iran of a coordinated campaign of crimes against humanity, a claim rejected by the regime.

As an eye surgeon, I was distressed to read a letter signed by over 100 Iranian ophthalmologists detailing eye injuries among protesters. The letter alleged that security forces had deliberately targeted people’s eyes with teargas canisters, rubber bullets and shotgun fire, resulting in traumatic injuries and irreversible blindness among protesters.

Dew drops are falling from my cloudy eyes
This cage, like my heart, is narrow and dark.
O fiery sigh set alight this cage
O fate, do not pick the flower of my life.

There were separate reports of women’s faces and genitals being targeted by shotgun fire. The regime appeared to have interfered with medical services: protestors transported to police stations in ambulances were arrested after surgery or denied treatment. Doctors were reportedly coerced to supply false death certificates to disguise the true cause of protestors’ deaths. The British Medical Journal documented healthcare professionals being arrested, intimidated, kidnapped or killed in retaliation for treating protesters.

If we didn’t know it already, Zan Zendegi Azadi reminded us of the risks, if not futility, of advocating for change in Iran.

When mass civil movements like this, performed ten times over, have not worked, what alternatives are the people left with? Brutalised and impoverished by their own government, should we be surprised when a traditionally Islamic people welcome a Jewish state’s decapitation of their political leaders? Is it not tempting, even if lazy, to invoke the historical comparison of Cyrus the Great, Persian King of the Achaemenid Empire, who freed the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity?

For the people of Iran and Israel – at the risk of naivety and romanticism – are we approaching an age of karma?

O rose, look towards this lover,
Look again, again, again.
O heart-lost bird, shorten, shorten, shorten,
The tale of separation.

An uncertain scenario

Regarding Operation Rising Lion, it is safe to say that Iranians, like any healthy community, hold a diversity of views.

At one end of the spectrum, those who unconditionally condemn Israel’s attack should consider that the Iranian government has stockpiled over 400 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium. While not enough to build a nuclear warhead, this is far more enriched uranium than is needed for peaceful purposes.

The Iranian government has also vowed to “wipe Israel off the map” for decades. Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei lauded the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas on Israeli civilians. In other words, Iran has said to Israel “we want to annihilate you, we’ll celebrate your deaths, and we could do it with nuclear weapons if we wished to”.

Following Iran’s recent breach of its nonproliferation obligations to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Israel says it has acted lawfully in attacking Iran for self-defense – a claim disputed by some international law experts. Even if one does not agree with Israel’s action, it is evident that they’ve long been baited by Iran.

On the other side of the coin, Iranians who salute Israel and the US as their saviours should take caution. The US director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard declared as recently as March 2025 that there was no evidence that Iran was actively pursuing nuclear weapons, a finding corroborated by over a dozen other US intelligence elements including the CIA, the National Security Agency, and the Insitute for Defense Analyses.

One cannot ignore the disturbing echoes of the 2003 war on Iraq, where the absence of evidence for weapons of mass destruction was intentionally misrepresented by the US and UK governments. The consequences for Iraq have been disastrous.

As for Netanyahu and his administration, they have shown a ruthless pursuit of narrow self-interest in Gaza. The deaths and injuries inflicted by the Israeli Defence Forces on more than 50,000 Palestinian children appear to have done nothing to quell their ambitions.

With regards to Netanyahu himself, he is facing corruption charges that could result in his domestic imprisonment and he has more recently been the subject of an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court for war crimes, including starvation and murder.

What can Iranians learn from this? The evidence suggests this could be a war of passion and opportunism for Israel, rather than one of legitimate self-defence. In any case, they are not waging it for the benefit of Iranians.

Israel has a tendency to set ambitious military goals that it can’t achieve. While it promises Operation Rising Lion will soon end, its track record suggests otherwise.

A protracted conflict would see Iran’s civilian toll rise much higher. Power outages and fuel shortages have already begun; what happens once water, medical and food scarcity set in? Since Iran doesn’t allow many international aid agencies onto its soil, who will come to the rescue of Iranians as things escalate?

Truth’s life has come to an end
Faith and fidelity have been replaced by the shield of war.
Lover’s lament and beloved’s coyness,
Are but lies and have no power.

Even if Israel succeeds in capturing or killing Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, what happens next? With the Revolutionary Guard’s roots in place, there is no guarantee, and in fact a low likelihood, of true democratic reform. In recent times, foreign interference in the region has not gone well. Look at Libya, Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria: all evidence of catastrophic worsening after the removal of autocrats.

This is a complex and uncertain scenario with little room for moral grandstanding. Disabling Iran’s nuclear and ballistic capabilities could be a net win, but the manner in which it is being done sets a dangerous precedent. For the Iranian people, Netanyahu’s ambitions could ultimately prove both heroic and villainous.

The cup of the rich is full of pure wine,
Our cup is filled with our heart’s blood.
O anxious heart, cry out aloud
And avoid those who have powerful hands.

As I watch coverage of the war, I find myself drifting back to Shajarian’s voice and to Morq-e Sahar, probably for distraction and comfort. What is real is my faith in my fellow Iranians. Many examples comes to mind. One, during a trip to Iran, was when I stayed with family at a roadhouse. That evening, we heard music emanating from the courtyard and followed some steps into an dark basement beneath the accommodation.

There we found a large gathering of young Iranians, two dozen or more men and women risking the law by hanging out together to sing. We joined them as strangers, seated on the floor and holding hands at times. In the dim light, the group sang and sang, a couple of them playing instruments.

I can’t say I knew the songs or comprehended all the lyrics; I didn’t need to, to understand their meaning. You may force our people underground, you may cage them, bombard and even kill them. But you will never extinguish their eternal Persian spirit.

O rosy-cheeked cup-bearer, give the fiery water,
Play a joyful tune, O charming friend.
O sad nightingale lament from your cage.
Because of your grief my heart is
Full of sparks, sparks, sparks.

Hessom Razavi does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Friday essay: ‘my heart is full of sparks’ – as war escalates, can I hope for Iran’s liberation from a tyrannical regime? – https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-my-heart-is-full-of-sparks-as-war-escalates-can-i-hope-for-irans-liberation-from-a-tyrannical-regime-259275

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Missing man, Kenmure, Dunedin.

Source: New Zealand Police

Have you seen Peter?

Police are asking for the public’s assistance to locate missing Peter, a 77-year-old man.

He was last seen in the Kenmure area of Dunedin at about 10.30pm on Thursday 19 June (yesterday).

He was wearing grey trousers, black or navy merino top and black slip on shoes.

Peter may also have a jacket and may be wearing a beanie, but this is unconfirmed.

If you have seen Peter, or have any information on his whereabouts, please contact Police on 111.

You can use the reference number P062923985.

ENDS

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: SA Police spits the dummy on young driver offending

Source: New South Wales – News

A new campaign targeting young drivers launches today, highlighting the life-changing consequences of committing road safety offences.

The campaign message, ‘Lost your licence? Sucks to be you,’ highlights the lifestyle regression young drivers face if they lose their licence.

Last year 81 per cent of drivers who receive an Immediate Loss of Licence penalties were young drivers (16-24-year-olds).

SA Police State Operations Service Assistant Commissioner Ian Parrott said becoming a new driver should be a liberating time, but it comes with serious responsibilities.

“If a young driver loses their licence, the excitement of driving themselves to work, sport and social events will go back to relying on parents and public transport again – and that sucks,” he said.

“In addition to losing personal freedoms, young drivers should be aware of the risks of causing a loss of life or serious injuries from unsafe driving.

“Sadly, fatal and serious injury crashes resulting from at-fault young drivers is overrepresented in South Australia.”

In 2024, young drivers found to be at-fault in crashes, caused 11 deaths, making up 12 per cent of all lives lost on the roads and caused 100 serious injuries.

Minister for Police, Stephen Mullighan MP said this campaign will send a clear message to young male drivers.

“Young men are overrepresented in serious and fatal crashes which is why this campaign is deliberately targeting that cohort of drivers.

“Getting your driver’s licence is an exciting time that gives young people more freedom but it also comes with enormous responsibility.

“Losing a driver’s license can have big impacts on a young person’s professional and personal life so I strongly urge drivers to abide by the road rules and take care when driving.”

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MIL OSI News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Aggravated robbery – Gillen

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Police are calling for information in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Gillen overnight.

Around 9pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a Taxi had been stolen while attending a job on Newland Street.

It is alleged that a male entered the Taxi on Newland Street, before exiting the vehicle and opening the driver’s side door and pulling the driver out of the vehicle. He subsequently assaulted the driver multiple times, before entering the vehicle and driving away.

A short time later, the alleged offender returned in the Taxi, parked and left the scene without further incident.

Police attended and seized the vehicle for forensic testing and the offender remains outstanding. The victim did not require medical treatment.

Strike Force Viper have carriage of the incident and investigations are ongoing.

Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P25165073. Anonymous reports can be made through 1800 333 000.

MIL OSI News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: George Town man charged after police seized 16 illegal firearms

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

George Town man charged after police seized 16 illegal firearms

Friday, 20 June 2025 – 10:16 am.

A man has been charged with multiple firearms, drug and driving-related offences after police seized 16 illegal firearms during a search at a George Town residence.
Police attended the residence on Wednesday 18 June while investigating an earlier driving offence in the George Town area.
Officers observed items of interest through a window of the property and subsequently executed a search warrant.
During the search police located the following firearms –

A single-barrel shotgun
2 x imitation semiautomatic sniper rifles
2 x imitation bolt action rifles
2 x imitation AR pistols
4 x imitation AR rifles
An imitation P90 submachine gun
An imitation colt pistol
An imitation revolver pistol
2 x imitation flintlock pistols

A 40 year old George Town man was arrested and has since been charged with multiple offences including possess a firearm to which a firearms licence may not be issued.
He will appear in court at a later date.
Anyone with information about illegal firearm and drug activity is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.

MIL OSI News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Charges over Central Highlands ‘wood-hooking’

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Charges over Central Highlands ‘wood-hooking’

Friday, 20 June 2025 – 9:36 am.

Nine people from the Queenstown area are facing charges including stealing and trespassing as part of joint operation between Tasmania Police and Sustainable Timber Tasmania targeting the illegal harvesting of timber in the Central Highlands.
Authorities have used surveillance and targeted patrols as part of the crackdown on the illegal collection of timber, including the collection of timber for firewood, a practice commonly referred to as wood-hooking.
Police have seized more than 200 tonnes of firewood in the operation.
“To date, proceedings have commenced against nine individuals from Queenstown, with a combined total of 141 counts of trespass and stealing,” Tasmania Police Senior Constable Jessica Weston said.
“Police will be paying close attention to anyone suspected of being involved in illegal wood collection and will intervene where appropriate. Anyone caught engaging in illegal wood collection may be proceeded against for breaches of legislation including stealing, unlawful possession, trespass and relevant traffic offences.”
Police issued a reminder that to collect firewood, you must either do it on your own land, have permission from the landowner, or have a permit from Sustainable Timber Tasmania or the relevant owner of that property.
Permits must be always carried when collecting and carting firewood. In all other cases, it is classified as stealing and anyone detected may face charges of stealing, trespass or unlawful possession as well as forfeiture of the firewood and equipment.
If you are purchasing from a firewood supplier, check to make sure that the wood has not been illegally sourced.
Reputable firewood dealers should be able to provide you with assurances of where the wood has come from.
Purchasing wood from suppliers who are members of the Australian Firewood Association is an easy way to be confident that your wood has been sourced legally.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 131 444 or can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au

MIL OSI News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Met Police increase patrols at summer concerts to protect women and girls
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

The Metropolitan Police Service has stepped up patrols at major music events across the capital over the summer – helping to keep women and girls safe as the number of stadium concerts in London more than doubles this year.  

As part of the ongoing crackdown on violent offenders, officers will be a visible and reassuring presence at more than 51 large-scale concerts throughout London.

With more than three million people due to attend Wembley stadium alone, officers are working with event organisers who have primary responsibility for safety and security at concerts. In total over 5,000 officer shifts will be dedicated to supporting the concerts, including public order officers, protective security and dedicated Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) patrols.

The operation began on Thursday, 5 June at the Beyoncé concert in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium –  the first of 19 concerts at the venue this summer – and has already had results. Officers supported venue security in removing individuals for stalking and threatening behaviour, and arrested a man for upskirting who remains on police bail while enquiries continue. 

Their role working with event organisers and event security will include engaging with attendees, identifying and intervening in any predatory or violent behaviour, and responding swiftly to any incidents of VAWG. Officers will also be patrolling between venues and major transport hubs and on hand to speak to concert goers.

This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to tackle VAWG in London, including the Met’s V100 project which uses data to track and target the most harmful offenders. Since its launch the programme has more than doubled the risk of arrest for the most harmful VAWG suspects compared to before the initiative existed with around three quarters of those on the V100 stack are accused of rape and multiple sexual assaults, as well as murder.

The level of risk is assessed using crime reports alongside a tool which measures the seriousness of harm to victims, known as the Cambridge Crime Harm Index. 

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ben Russell, who leads the Met’s V100 initiative and is also the lead officer for concerts this summer, said:  

“Every woman and girl has the right to feel safe, whether walking home, using public transport, or enjoying a night out at a concert. Yet too many still don’t.  The Met is determined to change that.

“This summer we are working closer than ever with stadium management and major event organisers to help keep the public safe. Dedicated VAWG patrols are taking place at a number of concerts throughout the summer, with officers trained to spot predatory men in crowds and taken action to prevent violence before it happens.”

Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Kaya Comer-Schwartz, said:   

“Women and girls deserve to be safe and feel safe wherever they are in the capital and I welcome this action by the Met at summer concerts to prevent violent behaviour, support those in need and take swift action against perpetrators.   

“The Met’s V100 work, made possible by City Hall funding, is transforming the way they tackle violence against women and girls, ensuring perpetrators who pose the greatest risk are arrested and convicted – protecting victims from the worst offenders and making our streets safer. Putting specially trained officers at these busy summer concerts is another step in the right direction. The Mayor and I will continue to support the Met to do everything possible to keep women and girls safe as part of our ongoing public health approach to tackling VAWG in all its forms to build a safer London for all.”    

A Wembley Stadium spokesperson said: 

“The Wembley experience is all about enjoying a moment that our guests will remember forever.  

“We are expecting around 3 million people to attend our concerts this summer – the majority of whom will be young women and girls. 

“All of them should be able to attend without any fear or worry and be able to remember that moment for all the right reasons.”
The Met is also investing in new tools and approaches, including:  
Rapid Video Response pilots to improve victim engagement;  
The Stalking Threat Assessment Centre to better assess and manage risks;  
Enhanced training for over 20,000 frontline officers to strengthen the initial police response to domestic abuse, stalking, and sexual violence.  
An additional 565 officers and staff have been drafted into public protection roles across the force aimed at enhancing our domestic abuse, rape and sexual offence investigation team to enable a better service for victims.   
The use of Live Facial Recognition to locate those wanted for offences and those subject to court orders, including sexual harm prevention orders.   
This summer’s visible patrols are just one part of a wider, long-term commitment to rebuild trust, prevent harm, and protect the women and girls of London.  

Members of the public are encouraged to speak to officers at the concerts and raise any concerns. Always call 999 in an emergency. 
MIL Security OSI –
June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Appeal for information after innocent man shot dead

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Detectives are appealing for information three months after an innocent man was fatally shot in Tottenham, in what detectives believe is a case of mistaken identity.

Mahad Abdi Mohamed, a much-loved son, brother and dad, died of a gunshot wound to the head following a shooting in Waverley Road, Tottenham at 20:45hrs on Thursday, 20 March.

He had spent the evening shortly before the shooting with his friend at their home. They were breaking their fast outside when a stolen Mitsubishi Outlander approached and the suspects inside opened fire, striking Mahad multiple times.

Multiple emergency services responded and tried to save him, but he later sadly died at hospital.

His friend, another man, aged 26, was treated in hospital for a non-life-changing gunshot wound to the leg.

The investigation so far has led officers to believe whoever killed Mahad set out to hurt someone else in a pre-meditated and targeted attack.

Four men were arrested on suspicion of murder in March and April. They were questioned and released on bail pending further investigations.

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Woodsford, leading the Met’s investigation, said:

“This tragic event, and Mahad’s death, has had a profound impact on the community and all those who loved him. Someone out there knows what happened. And that person, or people, must come forward.

“Regardless of how small you think your information is, please share it with us. It could be the missing link we need to secure justice for Mahad and his family.

“We are interested in hearing from those who saw anything suspicious in Waverley Road, Tottenham on the night of Thursday, 20 March, or witnessed a silver Mitsubishi Outlander, nearby just before 20:45hrs. This car was stolen and used to drive the suspects to and from the scene. It was found burnt-out in Runcorn Close, N17, the following morning.

“We understand how daunting the information sharing process can be, but there are lots of ways to talk either myself or my investigation team and we can ensure you will be supported every step of the way”

Appealing to the general public for information, Mahad’s youngest sister added:

“To stay silent is to be complicit. To stay silent is to let a grieving mother suffer in confusion. To stay silent is to let a little boy grow up not knowing what happened to his father.

“If you know something and you haven’t come forward, please think about that. Think about a family that cannot begin to heal because the truth is still hiding in the shadows. My brother deserves better. He deserves justice.”

Anyone who can help is asked to call police on 101, quoting 7426/20MAR. If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or visit the Major Incident Police Portal.

MIL Security OSI –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Chief coroner will not direct inquest into death of Lisa Colleen Rauch

Dr. Jatinder Baidwan, British Columbia’s chief coroner, has determined not to direct an inquest in the death of Lisa Colleen Rauch as the circumstances do not meet the requirement for a mandatory inquest under the Coroner’s Act.

On Dec. 28, 2019, Lisa Rauch’s death in Victoria was reported to the BC Coroners Service. It followed events involving members of the Victoria Police Department. Lisa Rauch was 43 years old at the time of her death.

After a review of the circumstances, the chief coroner has determined that an inquest is not required under Section 18(2)(a)(ii) of the Coroner’s Act because there was no meaningful connection between the care Lisa Rauch received while in custody and her death, nor is it necessary under Section 18(3). The circumstances around Lisa Rauch’s death were reviewed during a public hearing held before former attorney general Wally Oppal, KC, a retired Court of Appeal justice, at the direction of the B.C. police complaint commissioner. This hearing informed the public of the circumstances of Lisa Rauch’s death, and the resulting recommendations are public.

In making the decision not to direct an inquest, the chief coroner has also carefully considered the wishes of Lisa Rauch’s family.

Learn More:

To access B.C.’s Coroner’s Act, visit: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/07015_01

To learn more about coroner’s inquests, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/death/coroners-service/inquest-schedule-jury-findings-verdicts

MIL OSI Canada News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: 25 new places to eat in 2025
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
- Many new cafes, restaurants and bars have opened recently in Canberra.
- This story includes a list of new eateries to try in Canberra.
New year, new restaurants.

Whether you are after a new brunch spot or your next date night location, there is something new for everyone.

You can find Canberra’s first dedicated acai spot just outside of Westfield Woden.

Build your own acai bowl by choosing from a list of delicious toppings. They also have loaded waffles, shakes, and chocolate covered strawberries.

A new Mediterranean restaurant and wine bar is now open in Weston Creek.

Menu highlights include the carbonara arancini, lamb shoulder ragu, and pistachio crème brûlée.

This new Italian-inspired bar is the newest addition to Verity Lane.

Enjoy an Aperol Spritz with antipasti or your pasta of choice.

This new café is serving up Japanese-inspired desserts after dark.

Menu items include Shibuya Toast, bingsu, and matcha cheesecake.

Get your late-night sweet treat until 10:30pm, Thursday to Saturday nights.

You no longer need to visit Sydney to grab ButterBoy cookies. You can now buy these mouth-watering cookies at Red Brick.

Flavours include snickerdoodle, banoffee and Nutella. They also have gluten free options.

This new family-run café has a large menu full of authentic Turkish dishes.

Enjoy breakfast dishes such as meneme, or the kebabs and gozleme. Sweet tooths can enjoy desserts like baklava, while sipping on Turkish coffee and tea.

The owners of Champi in Kingston have opened a new venue in Phillip.

Champi Express is serving up southeast Asian breakfast and lunch dishes.

Clover dining blends classic Italian dishes with Japanese flavours and cooking techniques.

The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Some of their innovative dishes include the oyster mushroom sandwich, wagyu sirloin with sesame seeds and burnt garlic, and miso black cod.

This new Italian wine bar is serving up cured meats and cheeses, craft beer and great wine.

You can also book in for a wine tasting or grab a take-away charcuterie box.

This new café is serving up delicious breakfast and lunch, Monday to Friday.

Start your day with classic brunch options like a bacon and egg burger and eggs benedict or try something new like kimchi fried ramen with bacon and egg.

Verity Lane’s newest addition specialises in authentic Japanese and Korean katsu dishes.

Choose from classic options such as chicken, pork, and fish katsu, as well as vegetarian alternatives.

This new London-inspired modern café offers breakfast and lunch options, as well as an exclusive range of European luxury sweets, and ‘London Blend’ coffee.

This new restaurant on City Walk is serving up delicious Chinese dishes.

They do great lunch specials and happy hour.

You can now find authentic Vietnamese on Marcus Clarke Street in the City.

Try traditional Vietnamese dishes such as pho, chicken rice, banh mi and cơm tấm, in a cosy and elegant setting.

This new Malaysian restaurant is now open at Capital Food Market.

It’s open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Check out The Peacemaker Saloon for a taste of America’s wild west.

Indulge in hearty southwestern food such as smoked brisket and pork ribs, wings and mac ‘n cheese. There’s also an extensive cocktail and whiskey list.

This new southside spot is serving up coffee, protein shakes, smoothies, breakfast items, burgers and wraps.

A second location has opened for Pronto, with the first over in Queanbeyan.

This authentic Italian restaurant is the perfect spot to gather and share food with family and friends, with their large party menu.

Their Neapolitan pizza is a must-try, made from a 300-year-old recipe, as well as any of their regional Italian pastas.

Shaw Estate has a new restaurant in Murrumbateman.

The estate’s new dining space has a neutral and modern interior and a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Enjoy Italian dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients.

After building some buzz in 2024 with pop-ups at local venues such as Terra, Sunny now has their own food truck and will be popping up at events across Canberra.

Keep an eye on their socials to find out where you can grab one of their delicious smash burgers and hand-cut fries.

Located at the former site of Bellucci’s, this new pub is bringing a fun new energy to southside.

Whether you want to watch sport, catch up with friends or have a great pub feed, this spot has something for all Canberrans.

This new pub on southside opened in late April.

Enjoy tap beer, cocktails or mocktails with traditional pub food including schnitzels, burgers wings and more.

They do happy hour every day and have great lunch specials.

Located on the former site of Lonsdale Street Roasters, this multi-level venue is bringing good vibes to Braddon.

Uptown has a bakery and bar downstairs, and a bistro upstairs.

They offer European- based cuisine with a modern Australian twist, freshly baked sweet treats, coffee, cocktails and a great selection of wines.

You can find this Korean and Asian-inspired café on Lonsdale Street.

Menu items include crab scrambled egg, Korean fried chicken burger and smashed avocado with yuzu.

Located in the Eat Street precinct in Dickson, Zaiqah is serving up traditional Pakistani food.

Coming soon

This beloved Canberra burger joint is coming to Belco!

Keep an eye out on their channels for the opening date.

Masala Kitchen is a modern Indian cuisine restaurant opening soon in Braddon.

The chef behind Pizza Artigiana and food truck Hem & Co, Chef Hem, is opening a new venue on Marcus Clarke Street that will serve Roman-style pizza slices.

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MIL OSI News –
June 20, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Jaws at 50: the first summer blockbuster is still a film that bites – even when the shark didn’t work

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Will Jeffery, Sessional Academic, Discipline of Film Studies, University of Sydney

Photo by Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images

When I was eight years old, on a Saturday night before surf lifesaving training, my dad put on the film Jaws and it changed my life forever.

Unlike the generations of filmgoers who were afraid of sharks and going into the water during its initial release in 1975, I fell in love with the water and sharks.

Steven Spielberg’s film was the first summer blockbuster, received Academy Awards for sound, editing and music, and became the first film to earn US$100 million at the United States box office.

It was only the third film for the 28-year-old Steven Spielberg, and his second theatrical release (his first film, Duel, was made for TV), and success arrived only after much trouble.

Jaws was only the second feature film for Spielberg, pictured here on set.
Photo by Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Image

A marketed behemoth

Chief of Police Martin Brody (Roy Scheider) has recently moved from New York City to Amity Island with his wife, Ellen (Lorriane Gary), and their two children. As the small town prepares for its crucial 4th of July celebrations, a series of shark attacks threatens the festivities – and the town’s summer economy.

Mayor Larry Vaughan (Murray Hamilton) insists on keeping the beaches open for “summer dollars”. When the shark strikes again, local fisherman Quint (Robert Shaw) is hired to hunt it down. Brody and visiting marine biologist Matt Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) insist on joining the expedition to save the island.

The film was advertised as a suspense and horror monster movie. In what director Spielberg described as a marketing “blitzkrieg” campaign, Jaws, was released in the summer – peak swimming season.

Universal Pictures made sure every household knew about the film. There were multiple TV spots, a cover on Time Magazine, talk show appearances from cast and crew, and a wave of merchandise. It was the most money the company had ever spent on a film’s pre-release marketing.

The first American film released in more than 400 theatres at once, Jaws found its audience with overwhelmingly positive reviews and word of mouth – because Jaws was also extremely well made.

Wrangling the shark

Peter Benchley was hired to adapt his novel, but another screenwriter, Carl Gottlieb, was brought in to redraft Benchley’s more serious narrative and provide comic relief.

Jaws was initially planned for 55 days of shooting, but ballooned to 159 days and $8 million over budget. The main reason: the shark.

Apart from one scene using real underwater shark footage from Australians Ron and Valerie Taylor, the shark was mechanical. There were three sharks made for the film, all nicknamed “Bruce” after Spielberg’s lawyer.

Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts depicted the fictional Amity Island, and much of the second half was shot in water.

Much of the second half of the film was shot on the water.
Photo by Universal Studios/Courtesy of Getty Images

The mechanical shark sank … a lot. No wonder Spielberg named the temperamental and unreliable shark after his lawyer.

With the lack of a functioning shark, Spielberg made the artistic decision – echoing Alfred Hitchcock – to suggest the shark’s presence rather than show it outright in the film’s first half.

Spielberg even quotes Hitchcock’s Vertigo shot (a dolly zoom) in the scene when Brody realises a shark attack is unfolding under his watch.

Even without appearing onscreen, the shark has an overwhelming presence and effect on the audience, thanks to John Williams’ music: most of the film’s cues are associated with the shark.

Tension onscreen

One of my favourite moments in the film is in the aftermath of an attack on the young Alex Kintner (and poor dog Pippet!). Brody is slapped in the face by the mother of the slain Alex – but this is followed by a cute and wholesome encounter between Chief Brody and his son Sean.

As a father, Brody’s failure to prevent the attack on Alex reflects his loss of authority to capitalism. The water is the island’s summer revenue, and the hungry shark swims in it.

The film could have seen an early shark attack and immediately launched a shark hunt. However, the shark doesn’t appear much at all for a monster movie due to its malfunctioning. This worked in the film’s favour.

Instead, the film relied on good writing and strong performances to heighten the tension and build anticipation for the rare moments the shark has onscreen.

A lot of the film’s success comes from the dynamic and well-written trio of Brody, Hooper and Quint. In the final act set at sea with just the three leads on a boat surrounded by the shark, they needed to deliver – and they did, arguably stealing the movie from the shark.

Possibly the most famous scene in the entire film comes when the shark is fully revealed for the first time. Startled by its size, Brody backs into the cabin and delivers an improvised line: “you’re gonna need a bigger boat”.

Dreyfuss and Shaw famously didn’t get along in real life. You can see that tension play out onscreen. It arguably enhances their performances.

Still, one of the most iconic moments comes when Dreyfuss’s Hooper is left speechless by Quint’s USS Indianapolis monologue, describing being in the water with sharks after the warship was torpedoed.

The monologue was scripted, but Shaw improvised much of it.

A cinema classic

Jaws is now a cinema classic.

It launched Spielberg’s illustrious career, scared an entire generation from going into the water, and also inspired a new generation of marine activists – such as myself – who love sharks and the ocean.

I hope you’ll join me in revisiting Amity Island one more time to watch this timeless film that, apart from its mechanical shark, completely works.

Will Jeffery does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Jaws at 50: the first summer blockbuster is still a film that bites – even when the shark didn’t work – https://theconversation.com/jaws-at-50-the-first-summer-blockbuster-is-still-a-film-that-bites-even-when-the-shark-didnt-work-246247

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

June 20, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Jaws at 50: the first summer blockbuster is still a film that bites – even when the shark didn’t work

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Will Jeffery, Sessional Academic, Discipline of Film Studies, University of Sydney

Photo by Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images

When I was eight years old, on a Saturday night before surf lifesaving training, my dad put on the film Jaws and it changed my life forever.

Unlike the generations of filmgoers who were afraid of sharks and going into the water during its initial release in 1975, I fell in love with the water and sharks.

Steven Spielberg’s film was the first summer blockbuster, received Academy Awards for sound, editing and music, and became the first film to earn US$100 million at the United States box office.

It was only the third film for the 28-year-old Steven Spielberg, and his second theatrical release (his first film, Duel, was made for TV), and success arrived only after much trouble.

Jaws was only the second feature film for Spielberg, pictured here on set.
Photo by Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Image

A marketed behemoth

Chief of Police Martin Brody (Roy Scheider) has recently moved from New York City to Amity Island with his wife, Ellen (Lorriane Gary), and their two children. As the small town prepares for its crucial 4th of July celebrations, a series of shark attacks threatens the festivities – and the town’s summer economy.

Mayor Larry Vaughan (Murray Hamilton) insists on keeping the beaches open for “summer dollars”. When the shark strikes again, local fisherman Quint (Robert Shaw) is hired to hunt it down. Brody and visiting marine biologist Matt Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) insist on joining the expedition to save the island.

The film was advertised as a suspense and horror monster movie. In what director Spielberg described as a marketing “blitzkrieg” campaign, Jaws, was released in the summer – peak swimming season.

Universal Pictures made sure every household knew about the film. There were multiple TV spots, a cover on Time Magazine, talk show appearances from cast and crew, and a wave of merchandise. It was the most money the company had ever spent on a film’s pre-release marketing.

The first American film released in more than 400 theatres at once, Jaws found its audience with overwhelmingly positive reviews and word of mouth – because Jaws was also extremely well made.

Wrangling the shark

Peter Benchley was hired to adapt his novel, but another screenwriter, Carl Gottlieb, was brought in to redraft Benchley’s more serious narrative and provide comic relief.

Jaws was initially planned for 55 days of shooting, but ballooned to 159 days and $8 million over budget. The main reason: the shark.

Apart from one scene using real underwater shark footage from Australians Ron and Valerie Taylor, the shark was mechanical. There were three sharks made for the film, all nicknamed “Bruce” after Spielberg’s lawyer.

Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts depicted the fictional Amity Island, and much of the second half was shot in water.

Much of the second half of the film was shot on the water.
Photo by Universal Studios/Courtesy of Getty Images

The mechanical shark sank … a lot. No wonder Spielberg named the temperamental and unreliable shark after his lawyer.

With the lack of a functioning shark, Spielberg made the artistic decision – echoing Alfred Hitchcock – to suggest the shark’s presence rather than show it outright in the film’s first half.

Spielberg even quotes Hitchcock’s Vertigo shot (a dolly zoom) in the scene when Brody realises a shark attack is unfolding under his watch.

Even without appearing onscreen, the shark has an overwhelming presence and effect on the audience, thanks to John Williams’ music: most of the film’s cues are associated with the shark.

Tension onscreen

One of my favourite moments in the film is in the aftermath of an attack on the young Alex Kintner (and poor dog Pippet!). Brody is slapped in the face by the mother of the slain Alex – but this is followed by a cute and wholesome encounter between Chief Brody and his son Sean.

As a father, Brody’s failure to prevent the attack on Alex reflects his loss of authority to capitalism. The water is the island’s summer revenue, and the hungry shark swims in it.

The film could have seen an early shark attack and immediately launched a shark hunt. However, the shark doesn’t appear much at all for a monster movie due to its malfunctioning. This worked in the film’s favour.

Instead, the film relied on good writing and strong performances to heighten the tension and build anticipation for the rare moments the shark has onscreen.

A lot of the film’s success comes from the dynamic and well-written trio of Brody, Hooper and Quint. In the final act set at sea with just the three leads on a boat surrounded by the shark, they needed to deliver – and they did, arguably stealing the movie from the shark.

Possibly the most famous scene in the entire film comes when the shark is fully revealed for the first time. Startled by its size, Brody backs into the cabin and delivers an improvised line: “you’re gonna need a bigger boat”.

Dreyfuss and Shaw famously didn’t get along in real life. You can see that tension play out onscreen. It arguably enhances their performances.

Still, one of the most iconic moments comes when Dreyfuss’s Hooper is left speechless by Quint’s USS Indianapolis monologue, describing being in the water with sharks after the warship was torpedoed.

The monologue was scripted, but Shaw improvised much of it.

A cinema classic

Jaws is now a cinema classic.

It launched Spielberg’s illustrious career, scared an entire generation from going into the water, and also inspired a new generation of marine activists – such as myself – who love sharks and the ocean.

I hope you’ll join me in revisiting Amity Island one more time to watch this timeless film that, apart from its mechanical shark, completely works.

Will Jeffery does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Jaws at 50: the first summer blockbuster is still a film that bites – even when the shark didn’t work – https://theconversation.com/jaws-at-50-the-first-summer-blockbuster-is-still-a-film-that-bites-even-when-the-shark-didnt-work-246247

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Commend Thailand on Gender Inclusive Climate Action, Ask about Combatting Patriarchal Stereotypes and Ensuring Education for Marginalised Girls

Source: United Nations – Geneva

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women today concluded its consideration of the eighth periodic report of Thailand, with Committee Experts commending Thailand on its climate change master plan, which was gender inclusive, while raising questions about how the State was combatting patriarchal stereotypes and ensuring the right to education for marginalised girls.

A Committee Expert congratulated Thailand on the steps being taken to revise the climate change master plan which focused on gender and social inclusive climate action, including climate finance, adaptation and mitigation, recognising that women and girls experienced disproportionately greater loss and damage from the impacts of climate change.

Another Expert said Thailand remained a patriarchal society where women were expected to be caregivers while men were seen as leaders, which was reinforced in the media and other avenues. What programmes were in place to dismantle harmful gender stereotypes? Were there programmes to engage men and boys in efforts to transform discriminatory social norms? What mechanisms were in place to ensure that women from all communities could access justice and public services without stigma or discrimination?

A Committee Expert said the Committee was concerned about the high dropout rates among stateless and refugee girls and the fact that Patani Malay girls were discouraged from continuing their education due to early marriage and lack of education in Malay. Were there policies specifically targeted for expanding education to minorities? What steps were being taken to ensure the safety of girls living in the Southern Border Provinces?

The delegation said Thailand was aware that gender stereotypes were ingrained, and this would take a lifetime effort to overcome. Currently, changing the mindset of the people was difficult. It was important to raise awareness and re-learn what was appropriate. The Department of Women’s Affairs coordinated with academics to work with young people on a project to identify sexist language in textbooks in schools. A guidebook had been created and distributed to teachers to provide guidance on how to combat harmful gender stereotypes in schools.

The delegation said there were mechanisms in place to ensure women from marginalised groups received education. There were schools established in the Southern Border Provinces, with border patrol officers teaching the students. The State provided safety in all areas to prevent threats to students. A religious school, supported by the Government, was located in the Southern Border Provinces, providing additional opportunities for students.

Introducing the report, Ramrung Worawat, Director-General of the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security of Thailand, head of the delegation, said the act amending the Civil and Commercial Code (no. 24) or the equal marriage act came into force in January 2025. The act raised the minimum marriage age from 17 to 18 years old, adopted gender-neutral terms on marriage, permitted child adoption by same-sex couples, and ensured inheritance rights to them. Recent results of the general election in 2023 reflected a notable increase in the number of women and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex individuals elected to leadership positions. The current cabinet included eight females at ministerial rank, the highest number in Thailand’s political history.

In closing remarks, Ms. Worawat said the discussion with the Committee had been very fruitful. The State would aim to take forward the Committee’s recommendations, with a will to transform them into concrete actions.

In her closing remarks, Nahla Haidar, Committee Chair, thanked Thailand for the constructive dialogue which had provided further insight into the situation of women and girls in the country.

The delegation of Thailand was comprised of representatives of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security; the Ministry of Public Health; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Administrative Centre of the Southern Border Provinces; the Royal Thai Police; the Office of the Attorney General; the National Institute of Development Administration; and the Permanent Mission of Thailand to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s ninety-first session is being held from 16 June to 4 July. All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage. Meeting summary releases can be found here. The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

The Committee will next meet at 10 a.m. on Friday, 20 June to begin its consideration of the eighth periodic report of Ireland (CEDAW/C/IRL/8).

Report

The Committee has before it the eighth periodic report of Thailand (CEDAW/C/THA/8).

Presentation of Report

RAMRUNG WORAWAT, Director-General of the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security of Thailand, head of the delegation, said women made up just over half of Thailand’s population and almost 70 per cent of those were women between 15 to 59 years of age. Since the submission of Thailand’s last report in 2017, Thailand had been revising and drafting laws to further promote women’s rights, gender equality, and the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women.

The act amending the Civil and Commercial Code (no. 24) or the equal marriage act came into force in January 2025. The act raised the minimum marriage age from 17 to 18 years old, adopted gender-neutral terms on marriage, permitted child adoption by same-sex couples, and ensured inheritance rights to them. In addition, the gender equality act was being reviewed to ensure it further aligned with international standards.

The draft anti-discrimination act would strengthen the legal basis for the elimination of discrimination on all grounds, including sex and gender, and address situations of multiple and intersecting discrimination. Furthermore, the draft act on the protection and promotion of the way of life of ethnic groups was being considered by the Parliament. The act focused on eliminating discrimination and promoting equality based on cultural diversity. The plan of action on women’s development (2023-2027) was developed to ensure women’s participation in socio-economic development and to promote their leadership in public spaces.

The National Women’s Development Policy and Strategy Committee and the Committee for the Promotion of Gender Equality were responsible for setting and driving gender equality policies. A substantial budget was allocated for the main agencies, with an additional budget allocated to assist specific groups of women and advance gender equality in an integrated manner. A strategic plan for the promotion and protection of children and youth in the use of online media was being developed, and a coordinating centre, Child Online Protection Action Thailand, was established to lead collaborative efforts with partners.

Thailand continued its policy of inclusive education and provided 15 years of free education for all children without discrimination. The country supported royal-initiated “Phiengluang Schools” for special target groups in border or underserved areas with limited access to rights and social welfare. An online teacher training programme aimed to help schools and teachers plan inclusive sexuality education.

Economic empowerment measures had been introduced to protect both formal and informal female workers. The Women’s Role Development Fund was established to enable women to pursue careers and income opportunities, improve women’s access to financial resources, and expand childcare services for children under three years old to promote equality in family responsibilities. The child support grant programme and the state welfare card programme provided monthly allowances and financial assistance to support low-income households.

Women were increasingly taking part in politics at the national and local levels and within the public administration. Recent results of the general election in 2023 reflected a notable increase in the number of women and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex individuals elected to leadership positions. The current cabinet included eight females at ministerial rank, the highest number in Thailand’s political history. There were currently 15 female provincial governors, including the appointment of the first Muslim female governor of Pattani Province in 2022.

The Thai Government promoted universal access to public health services and implemented measures to ensure that vulnerable women, including informal female workers and registered migrant women, could access healthcare. All women and girls were guaranteed equal access to health services under the Universal Health Coverage Scheme. The most challenging task for Thai Government agencies was advanced and disaggregated data collection. Enhanced data collection would enable Thailand to better implement policies and undertake targeted actions to empower specific groups.

In October 2024, the Cabinet approved guidelines to accelerate the resolution of nationality and legal status issues for long-term migrants and their children born in Thailand, to ensure the legal recognition and integration of stateless individuals who had lived in the Kingdom for extended periods, as well as their Thai-born descendants.

The draft policy on administration and development in the Southern Border Provinces (2025-2027) was developed to support vulnerable groups, strengthen family and community roles in problem-solving, and develop networks of women and youth to foster peace at the family and community level. The Coordination Centre for Women and Children in the Southern Border Provinces was established as a joint mechanism between the Government and civil society, serving as a platform to coordinate and mobilise resources, receive complaints, and resolve issues involving women and children.

Thailand had developed a national adaptation plan for climate change, with a strong emphasis on gender dimensions at every stage, from planning and decision-making to community participation. The country was committed to promoting gender equality and to upholding and protecting the human rights of women, girls, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex individuals, and those facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. Thailand’s progress in gender equality was not just a matter of fulfilling international obligations, but a national priority.

Statement by the National Human Rights Institution

PORNPRAPAI GANJANARINTR, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand, said while the Thai Government had made efforts to promote gender equality, many women, especially those from vulnerable groups, continued to face serious barriers in accessing their basic rights. Women with disabilities faced violence and barriers in accessing the justice system, were subjected to forced sterilisation and abortion, and were excluded from decision-making processes. Ethnic women remained without legal status and were not protected under the law. Women in detention faced overcrowding, with 46 per cent of women’s detention facilities in Thailand exceeding their capacity, leading to poor hygiene, limited space, and mental health issues.

These cases illustrated that many women were still blocked from accessing basic rights due to deep-rooted discrimination. The National Human Rights Commission of Thailand believed that the structural reform needed action in three key areas: inclusive participation in policymaking bodies at different levels; legal reform and proper enforcement; and the empowerment of women. It was vital to ensure that every woman, regardless of her background, could fully enjoy her rights.

Questions by a Committee Expert

RANGITA DE SILVA DE ALWIS, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur,

signalled two significant law reform initiatives. Thailand was the first country in Southeast Asia to guarantee same sex marriage in 2024. The marriage equality bill had helped bend the arch of justice toward all. The organic act on anti-corruption (No. 2) included provisions to protect those who reported corruption.

The Committee looked forward to the expedited revision of the domestic violence law and the new sex worker protection law. Thailand’s national artificial intelligence strategy must remain vigilant as this was an important new frontier for gender justice and women’s leadership. Thailand was encouraged to cite the Convention as an authoritative tool in all jurisprudence.

How would Thailand broaden the civic space for female journalists and female human rights defenders? How did Thailand provide protection from arbitrary arrest for women human rights defenders? How were they ensured the right to a fair trial? How were they protected from online crimes and cyber harassment? How did the Safe Internet Coalition address hate speech and tech-facilitated gender-based violence? How was free speech for women guaranteed in politics?

Despite the de facto moratorium on the death penalty, Thailand had one of the largest proportions of women on death row, predominately for drug-related offenses. Many of these women had faced numerous stressors throughout their lives, including mental health problems. Would Thailand consider reviewing mandatory sentencing guidelines so that specific exculpatory or mitigatory factors such as homelessness and metal health were considered?

Thailand should be lauded for its women, peace and security plan, which addressed both traditional and non-traditional security challenges. Not citing the Convention in relation to climate change was a missed opportunity. How were Muslim women, indigenous women, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex women engaged as peacemakers? Would cyber security be considered in the women, peace and security plan?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said pregnant women were entitled to paid maternity leave, to protect the health and safety of mothers and children. This was considered a form of positive discrimination. Male, female and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex inmates were separated in prisons to ensure their rights. Thailand recognised the important role of women human rights defenders, and they had been identified as a key target group under the national human rights plan. The plan included special provisions for developing laws and mechanisms to protect this group. Thailand had been forced to strengthen its legislative framework to create a safe and enabling environment for human rights defenders. The anti-corruption act aimed to protect whistleblowers reporting corruption or public misconduct.

A course had been developed to promote internet awareness among children, youth and older persons. In Thailand, most victims of online scams were older persons. The implementation of the training was carried out in collaboration with public and private companies, academics and non-governmental organizations. The training fostered skills to ensure safe and secure internet use. Work to strengthen child and youth protection mechanisms on online media was driven by child protection committees and child protection centres.

The Department of Corrections was fully committed to ensuring the protection of the rights of all women in custody. Special attention was given to the emotional wellbeing of women prisoners and their accompanying children. Women were subject to non-invasive scans to avoid invasive strip searches. Women prisoners underwent initial screenings by medical staff upon entry, and were ensured that their specific health needs were fulfilled. Counselling services were provided to female inmates at least one month, and those who required further psychological support were identified.

Female death row inmates benefitted from the right to communicate with their family. For pregnant women facing capital punishment, the sentence would be suspended until three years after the child was born. The human rights of female death row inmates were ensured, while also upholding legal and ethical safeguards.

Thailand had participated in many United Nations peacekeeping operations for several decades, and believed female peacekeepers helped foster trust within the communities. The State was committed to providing more female peacekeepers. Thailand was finalising the national action plan on women, peace and security for 2024 to 2027, which would focus on women affected by conflict-affected situations. It was expected to be launched by the end of 2025. Gender initiatives had been integrated into several aspects of the peacekeeping module, including training courses.

The Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre had established the subdistrict Peace Councils in 317 subdistricts. Thailand’s climate change response aimed to allocate a budget for funding assistance to support women engaging in climate change and revise laws which created barriers for women’s participation.

Questions by Committee Experts

A Committee Expert recognised important advances, including the marriage equality act, and the adoption of a national strategy on this issue. What measures had the State party adopted to ensure the territorialised adoption of gender policies in areas affected by armed conflict? What measures had been taken to harmonise religious and customary laws with State legislation and gender equality? How was it ensured that data collected reflected the multiple inequalities by marginalised groups?

Another Expert said the Committee was happy to note that the Government had improved relevant policies and regulations and formulated a national action plan for women’s development. During the pandemic, the Government took a variety of measures to improve women’s working measures and legal provisions. Would the State party adopt temporary special measures to address the persistent underrepresentation of women in the public and private sectors?

Would special measures be adopted to address intersecting forms of discrimination faced by women from marginalised groups, including indigenous women and elderly women? Would temporary special measures be adopted to further reduce poverty and levels of violence for women in Southern Border Provinces, including female genital mutilation? Would these measures be coupled with capacity building to ensure their effectiveness?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said Thailand had established gender-responsive budgeting. Seminars had been organised by Government officials and representatives of the private sector to ensure that gender-responsive budgeting was understood, and that women and girls could benefit from the national budget. The private business sector cooperated with United Nations Women to integrate gender-responsive budgeting into business operations.

A study had been conducted which focused on the allocation of quotas for women and gender diverse individuals at national and local levels of politics. The Government encouraged political parties to include women proportionally to men in their candidate lists. Thailand’s number of female candidates had dramatically increased since 2019 and was on a positive trend.

Under the application of Islamic law in certain provinces, the Islamic family law was currently applied to Muslim citizens in the Southern Border Provinces. A hybrid court system was responsible for handling cases involving disputes with family cases. Muslim women who were victims of domestic violence and sexual violence could seek assistance through alternative avenues. Marriages were regulated under the Central Islamic Committee, which prohibited marriage for anyone under the age of 17. Most of the Southern Border Provinces were Muslim. There were also channels for grievances for Islamic women, including remedies for victims affected by the conduct of officials. Assistance had been provided to more than 3,000 victims, and remedy was also provided to those affected by violence in the Southern Border Provinces. Scholarships and education support was provided to children affected by the unrest.

Questions by Committee Experts

A Committee Expert said patriarchal practices continued to drive high rates of gender-based violence. Current frameworks prioritised family reunification over the protection of the survivors. How was it ensured that survivor centred protection and legal remedies were available to all victims, including those in conflict-affected areas? Were there plans to enact comprehensive legislation which criminalised online violence against women? How was it ensured that survivors could report cases of violence safely without fear of reprisals? How were gender-based violence policies being monitored and evaluated?

Thailand remained a patriarchal society where women were expected to be caregivers while men were seen as leaders, which was reinforced in the media and other avenues. What programmes were in place to dismantle harmful gender stereotypes? Were there programmes to engage men and boys in efforts to transform discriminatory social norms? What mechanisms were in place to ensure that women from all communities could access justice and public services without stigma or discrimination? What steps was the State party taking to explicitly criminalise and eliminate harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and bride abduction, and to conduct awareness campaigns on their impact on women’s rights?

Another Expert asked what steps the State party would take to effectively combat labour trafficking of women? The anti-trafficking act allowed courts to waive punishments for parents who forced their children into labour due to extreme poverty and other extenuating circumstances; this was unacceptable. How did the State party intend to ensure the protection of the girl child from being trafficked by her parents? What steps was the State party taking to ensure the effective implementation of the national referral mechanism throughout the country.

The Committee commended the State party for the significant efforts made to bring the perpetrators of trafficking in persons to justice, including corrupt officials who protected traffickers. While training was provided to police, immigration and labour officials, and prosecutors and judges, it was not mandatory for new judges. What steps would be taken to ensure all those responsible for trafficking cases and prosecutions were adequately trained? How did the State party envisage regulating prostitution in the future? Would sex workers be decriminalised and prostitution be legal?

Another Expert asked what the State was doing to combat cyber trafficking, which was an increasingly prevalent issue?

RANGITA DE SILVA DE ALWIS, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur, said the Thai President had been the victim of a voice scam. How were scams tackled in the context of women in political and public life?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the domestic violence protection act was approved in 2025. The Ministry of Public Health in Thailand opposed female genital mutilation and recognised it as a grave violation of human rights. Thailand was committed to eliminating this harmful practice in all its forms and was focused on providing education about its potential health consequences. This effort was carried out in collaboration with community networks.

During the period 2021–2023, there were no violations found by labour inspectorates. Thailand maintained proactive oversight through the labour inspectorate system. Thailand aimed to conduct awareness raising among children and youth on trafficking and had developed youth focused education and training in this regard.

Thailand was aware that gender stereotypes were ingrained, and this would take a lifetime effort to overcome. Currently, changing the mindset of the people was difficult. It was important to raise awareness and re-learn what was appropriate. The Department of Women’s Affairs coordinated with academics to work with young people on a project to identify sexist language in textbooks in schools. A guidebook had been created and distributed to teachers to provide guidance on how to combat harmful gender stereotypes in schools. While gender stereotypes were the key focus currently, the States pledged to eventually address all kinds of stereotypes.

The country operated under the premise that sex work was not considered a crime and that sex workers should have access to appropriate justice avenues if required.

Questions by Committee Experts

An Expert acknowledged the second female Prime Minister of Thailand, who was historically the youngest. The Committee was concerned about the low levels of women’s representation in political institutions. Cultural norms and stereotypes actively discouraged women from entering politics. What legislative measures were being taken to combat issues such as gender hate speech and harmful stereotypes which deterred women from participating in public life? Were there plans to address workplace bullying in parliament? What was the level of representation of Muslim women in politics?

Women appeared to be underrepresented in the Foreign Office, comprising just 15 per cent of ambassadors. What steps were being taken by the State party to ensure this underrepresentation of women was rectified, including minorities such as women from the deep south and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex women? The Committee commended the Thai Government for increasing the protection of human rights defenders. How many recommendations from the fourth and fifth national human rights plan targeting human rights defenders had been implemented? Were there plans to address the small number of female military personnel? How was it ensured that civil society could participate in multilateral environments?

A Committee Expert said Thailand had over half a million registered stateless persons in January 2022, many of whom were ethnic minorities in remote areas who were unaware of their rights. Thailand had not ratified key United Nations Conventions on statelessness. There were differences when it came to men and women obtaining Thai nationality. Would the State plan to make amendments to the national act, providing equality on citizenship for men and women? What measures had been taken to decrease the number of stateless women and children? How did the Government plan to support refugee women, including Rohingya women?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said female police officers could advance to the Commissioner rank through examinations. Female police officers occupied the highest rank within the Thai police. The representation of women in the Superintendent rank rose from 13 per cent in 2021 to 16.7 per cent in 2025. Approximately 66 per cent of Thai diplomats were women, and around 36 per cent of Thai ambassadors were women. Measures including maternity leave were put in place to ensure the support of female staff. Women were encouraged to participate in multilateral fora.

For decades, the Thai Government had continually adopted policies and measures to improve the protection of stateless persons in the country. Their access to public services had been increased. In 2024, a cabinet solution was adopted to expedite the process to nationality acquisition to a large group of the population. This would allow stateless children to obtain Thai nationality.

It was important to analyse data to determine how to counter the trend of violence against female political candidates.

Comprehensive health access was ensured for all migrants, including women. The migrant health insurance scheme was a voluntarily contributory scheme utilised by migrant workers in the informal sector, prior to national health insurance enrolment. Public health care was actively working to address the needs of unregistered migrants. Although Thailand was not party to the 1951 Convention relating to the protection of refugees, the State had taken other steps to ensure their rights were upheld. For instance, a memorandum of understanding had been developed to ensure children and their mothers were placed in child protection centres, instead of being held in immigration centres.

Recent steps showed that 80 per cent of Thai women wished to start their own business, with 45 per cent of Thai women considering themselves to be entrepreneurs.

The delegation said within the fourth national human rights action plan (2019-2022), there were several recommendations for human rights defenders, including strengthening the protection act, studying best practices on the protection of freedom of assembly, and allocating more funding, among others. The fifth national human rights action plan also contained three specific recommendations for human rights defenders, including acceding to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, which came into effect in Thailand in 2024.

The Committee for the Promotion of Gender Equality was responsible for formulating policies, measures and operational plans to promote gender equality across all sectors.

Questions by a Committee Expert

A Committee Expert said the Committee noted with satisfaction the adoption of the national education act of 1999 which guaranteed all children equal rights and opportunities to receive free and compulsory basic education. The Committee encouraged the State party to continue efforts aimed at reaching gender parity in primary and secondary school enrolment. Despite these efforts, the Committee was concerned about the high dropout rates among stateless and refugee girls and the fact that Patani Malay girls were discouraged from continuing their education due to early marriage and lack of education in Malay.

Were there policies specifically targeted for expanding education to minorities? What steps were being taken to ensure the safety of girls living in the Southern Border Provinces? How was cyber bullying against transgender students being addressed in schools and universities?

Thailand was commended for leading in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields; how was it ensured these translated into employment opportunities for young women? What steps was the State party taking to ensure age-appropriate sexual reproductive education in schools?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said there were mechanisms in place to ensure girls from marginalised groups received education. There were schools established in the Southern Border Provinces, with border patrol officers teaching the students. Schools in rural areas faced disadvantages; however, there were no discriminatory practices for migrant girls to access schools. The current school graduation rates showed a higher percentage of girls compared to boys. The State provided safety in all areas to prevent threats to students. A religious school, supported by the Government, was located in the Southern Border Provinces, providing additional opportunities for students.

Bullying stemmed from stereotypes, and the Ministry of Education was aware of this issue. Work had been undertaken to combat bullying of transgender students, including launching a digital platform for reporting on school safety. At risk students, including victims and perpetrators, were identified, and activities were conducted to encourage friendship and positive interaction. Support was strengthened for teachers to enable them to identify early warning signs and respond in a timely fashion. The development of science and technology projects had provided scholarships to students of all genders. Thailand was committed to providing age-appropriate sexual and reproductive education in schools. The protest “One School One Hospital” encouraged hospitals to provide advice on sexual health and contraception directly to students.

Questions by a Committee Expert

A Committee Expert said the gender pay gap remained at around 11 per cent in Thailand, and around 66 per cent of female workers in the agricultural sector earned below the minimum wage. Had the equal pay act been adequately enforced? What was being done to address noncompliance? What measures were being taken to ensure women in the domestic sector and migrant workers were covered under social protection schemes?

How was the effective protection of pregnant women ensured, particularly in small businesses? Was there a plan to introduce mandated paternity leave? What steps had been taken to ensure sexual harassment protections extended to all sectors? What mechanisms were in place to monitor sexual harassment? Were there any plans to formalise the employment pathway for migrant workers?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the labour protection act mandated that employers paid equal wages for equal work, regardless of a person’s gender. Thailand was developing a draft act to facilitate the empowerment of informal workers. Thailand provided compensation for women migrant workers, including paid maternity leave and protection against dismissal due to pregnancy. Thailand had enacted legislation which prohibited sexual harassment in all workplaces. Steps were being taken to bring informal migrant workers into the formal system. The State provided legal guidance on rights and duties under the law, including regarding labour disputes.

Questions by a Committee Expert

A Committee Expert said according to the Criminal Court, abortion could be interrupted up to the twelfth week, but after this time period, a pregnant woman was required to have a consultation with a doctor, and faced a sanction and fine if she proceeded with an abortion. Did the State plan to amend its Criminal Code to fully decriminalise abortion and abolish the need for consultations after the 12-week mark? How was the State combatting the stigma of abortion by health staff? The number of forced sterilisation and coercive abortions of persons with disabilities was concerning. What was being done to end these damaging practices? What mechanisms were put in place to ensure appropriate measures were taken in this area? Would the State provide reparations to victims?

Women in the Southern Border Provinces faced further issues, including female genital mutilation and unsafe abortions, as well as mental health issues due to the violence they experienced. How was the State addressing these issues? What steps was it taking to combat female genital mutilation, ensuring Muslim women could access care appropriate to their religious beliefs? The Committee had heard that women living with HIV were subject to tests without their consent and were pressured to undergo sterilisation. What steps were being taken to ensure these tests were carried out without coercive pressure? What was being done to ensure full access to HIV therapy for the most vulnerable groups? How was the right to health guaranteed for women in the prison system?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said a woman could fully terminate her pregnancy under 12 weeks without criminal liability. Between 12 and 20 weeks, abortion services were accessible following certified consultations with public health professionals and based on medical grounds. Medical personnel received specialised training to enhance their expertise in abortion care. The current national reproductive health policy aimed to ensure equitable and inclusive births, including for persons with disabilities.

Any HIV treatment was provided based on consent, and testing without consent was considered a violation of a patient’s rights. Sterilisation could only be performed with an individual’s free and informed consent. Women and others living with HIV were only treated if they gave their informed consent; there were no practices of forced testing, and any allegations of such cases were investigated. Thailand focused on improving standardised medical treatment for females who were incarcerated. Screenings were carried out for cancers and other diseases. The Universal Health Coverage Scheme also covered the border areas, as did the mental health programme.

Questions by a Committee Expert

A Committee Expert asked how the State party planned to reduce gender disparity in social security, particularly for refugees and migrants residing in camps? Initiatives supporting women’s entrepreneurship were welcomed, including the Women’s Empowerment Fund. However, women in rural communities faced issues in accessing services. What policies were in place for ensuring equal access to financial services for women in all areas? What measures were in place to promote disadvantaged women in sports and culture?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the Human Development Fund was available to provide opportunities for women to access funds for businesses and economic empowerment. Currently, there were around 17 million female members of this Fund. By 2024, 17-million-baht worth of loans had been provided to females across the country. Work needed to be done to provide larger loans to women.

Questions by a Committee Expert

A Committee Expert asked what concrete steps the State party was taking to ensure the protection and empowerment of marginalised women and girls? What was being done to effectively advance the rights of these women and girls? How was the State party effectively implementing the international standards for the treatment of prisoners as provided for in the Nelson Mandela Rules and the Bangkok Rules?

The Expert congratulated the State party on the steps being taken to revise the climate change master plan which focused on gender and social inclusive climate action, including climate finance, adaptation and mitigation, recognising that women and girls experienced disproportionately greater loss and damage from the impacts of climate change. What concrete steps was the State party taking to ensure that climate financing, adaptation and mitigation strategies met the specific needs of women and girls?

What steps was the State party taking to ensure that the blue economy and agriculture were sustainable, inclusive, and resilient to climate change, to meet the specific needs of women and girls? What measures was the State party taking to ensure the protection of all women and girls from the disproportionate impacts of air pollution?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said inmates in the prison system received three nutritious meals daily which respected local, cultural and religious practices, and drinking water was supplied in adequate quantities. To address overcrowding concerns, the Department of Corrections could authorise inmates to be moved to alternative custody alternatives. A committee had been established to manage this process.

A national adaptation plan on climate change had been developed, aligning with global adaptation goals. The plan emphasised the importance of gender equality in planning, decision making and public participation. Measures in the plan included enhancing early warning systems, developing adaptation guidelines for vulnerable farming communities, and gender-responsive budgets, among other measures.

Questions by a Committee Expert

A Committee Expert commended the State party for raising the minimum age of marriage to 18 years. In addition, Thailand had become the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage. However, child marriage persisted in Thailand, particularly in lower income areas. Polygamy was prohibited under the Civil Code, but it was still practiced. What enforcement mechanisms were in place to eradicate exceptions permitting marriage under the age of 18? What progress was being envisaged in harmonising Islamic family and inheritance law? What was the body specifically assigned for this important task? How was the State party addressing systemic barriers that Muslim women faced in accessing divorce? What concrete steps were being taken to eradicate polygamous unions?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said Islamic family law was currently provided to Muslim citizens in the Southern Border Provinces. Government authorities had supported the application of the use of Islamic family law in line with human rights and standards. The Administrative Centre of the Southern Border Provinces had disseminated a family law handbook on inheritance and other laws. After divorce, women were required under the Civil Code to wait for a certain number of days before remarrying. They could remarry earlier, if they could provide a certificate from a doctor which stated they were not pregnant. Door to door outreach was conducted to screen populations at risk of air pollution, including pregnant women.

Closing Remarks

RAMRUNG WORAWAT, Director-General of the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security of Thailand, head of the delegation, said the discussion with the Committee had been very fruitful. The State would aim to take forward the Committee’s recommendations, with a will to transform them into concrete actions. Thailand wished to maintain the dialogue with the Committee and advance this important agenda at the international level.

NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, thanked Thailand for the constructive dialogue which had provided further insight into the situation of women and girls in the country.

___________

Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

CEDAW25.014E

MIL OSI United Nations News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Capture Two Memphis Murder Suspects in Middle Tennessee

Source: US Marshals Service

Memphis, TN – On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) captured two First-Degree fugitives in Middle Tennessee responsible for a double homicide in Memphis.

Around 3 p.m. on April 24, 2025, the Memphis Police Department (MPD) responded to a shooting near a school on S. Lauderdale Street at Mississippi Boulevard resulting in the school being placed on lockdown. Two males were pronounced dead at the scene. During the investigation, MPD Detectives identified suspects involved in this crime.

As a result of MPD’s investigation, a grand jury indicted Demanuel Jackson, 18, and Mario Simmons, 19 on two counts of First-Degree murder. On May 20, 2025, a warrant was issued through Shelby County Criminal Court for the arrests of Jackson and Simmons.

The USMS Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force in Memphis was asked to assist in locating and apprehending both men. The Task Force developed information that both suspects were in Murfreesboro and sent investigative leads to the Middle Tennessee Joint Fugitive Task Force based in Nashville.

Around 8:30 p.m., June 18, Marshals apprehended Jackson and Simmons at a residence in Murfreesboro. They were transported to the Rutherford County Jail and will be held pending transfer to Shelby County.

“Once again, I commend the great investigative work of the Memphis Police Department and appreciate the collaboration from the fugitive task force in Middle Tennessee who put handcuffs on these suspects,” said U.S. Marshal Tyreece Miller. “The U.S. Marshals Service remains committed to bringing dangerous fugitives to justice.”

The U.S. Marshals Service Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force (TRVFTF) is a multi-agency task force within Western Tennessee. The TRVFTF has offices in Memphis and Jackson, and its membership is primarily composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, and Gibson County Sheriff’s Deputies, Memphis and Jackson Police Officers, Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Since 2021, the TRVFTF has captured over 3,000 violent offenders and sexual predators.

MIL Security OSI –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Officers to face misconduct hearing following investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Officers involved in an incident in Southwark in May 2023 in which a woman was restrained by officers have been advised they will face gross misconduct hearings following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

On 9 May 2023 police were called to an address in SE15 following reports of a disturbance. Officers, all from the Central South Command, attended and identified a 90-year-old woman who was distressed. After officers attempted to engage with her, she was restrained using handcuffs and a spit hood applied after she spat towards officers. The woman was then taken to hospital. She was not arrested.

During the course of the incident, an officer issued a red-dot challenge with their Taser but did not discharge it.

Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond, who leads policing in Southwark, said: “While the misconduct hearing will carefully consider all the facts to determine whether the allegations are proven, I want to again acknowledge the distress caused to the woman involved and very real widespread concerns that followed.

“Officers know we expect them to show compassion and to adjust their approach according to the circumstances they are faced with. Over the coming days we will work closely with those communities most affected to ensure they feel heard and supported.

“We have provided every assistance to the IOPC throughout its investigation and will now arrange for the hearing to be held as soon as possible.”

Following an investigation by the IOPC, a PC will answer an allegation they used excessive force through their use of the Taser. They also face allegations about their treatment of the woman during the incident.

In addition, this officer will face allegations they used their Taser inappropriately during an unrelated incident on 10 May 2023. This matter was also subject to an IOPC investigation.

A second PC and a third former PC, who left the Met in August 2024, will face allegations they used excessive force during the original incident and then later provided false statements.

Both serving officers are currently on restricted duties.

A further three PCs will undergo the reflective practice review process to learn from the matter based on various aspects of their behaviour during the incident.

The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards made a voluntary referral to the IOPC on 18 May following the incident and the IOPC launched an independent investigation.

In July 2023, the IOPC informed six PCs they were under criminal investigation. They were also served with gross misconduct notices.

The Crown Prosecution Service later confirmed the matter did not meet the evidential threshold for charges to be brought.

MIL Security OSI –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public service reform strategy launched
Source: Scottish Government

Blueprint for enhancing lives and communities.

A new Public Service Reform Strategy will deliver the public services that people of Scotland deserve and need in the future, Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee has said.

Outlining the strategy to Parliament, the Minister also announced the intention to reduce spending on corporate functions across public bodies, including the Scottish Government, to deliver £1 billion of savings in five years.

The strategy sets out concrete steps that government will take through partnership working, particularly with trade unions, to ensure that every pound of investment is focused on frontline delivery and that there are the right staff in the right roles to deliver real change.

More than 80 actions are set out to drive change and make Scotland’s public services fit for the future, by addressing the challenges caused by increased demand, changing demographics and UK Government financial decisions.

These include leadership and cultural change across the public sector; reducing the number of public bodies to deliver increased efficiency; further review and rationalisation of public sector buildings, working with local partners to remove data barriers that prevent the delivery of programmes; embracing automation and publishing a new Digital Strategy which will set out the acceleration of the digitisation of government.

Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee said:

“This strategy is grounded in the shared belief that Scotland’s public services are an investment — in people, places and our collective future. It builds on the work we’ve done since the Christie Commission which outlined the need for public services focused on prevention, place, partnership, people and performance.

“Public service reform is an integral part of the government’s response to the challenges we face. The strategy sets out a bold, system-wide approach to change centred around three key priorities: prevention, joined-up services and efficiency.

“The aim is to do things better, not do less. Public services are an asset and investment in our collective future. They reflect the society we are, and who we aspire to be.

“We are determined to unlock the full potential of Scotland’s public services — making them more efficient, more joined-up, and more preventative in approach, so that they work better for the people of Scotland. It demonstrates that this Government is ready to go further and faster than we ever have to reform our public services.

“We must be bold and brave to deliver real, long lasting and meaningful change.”

Background

Scotland’s Public Service Reform Strategy: Delivering for Scotland – gov.scot

The Public Service Reform Strategy is supported by sectoral improvement plans including the NHS Operational Improvement Plan – to tackle immediate pressures on the health service – and the Tackling Child Poverty Plan to reduce the number of children living in relative poverty in Scotland to 10% by 2030.

It builds on the findings of and subsequent work following the 2011 Christie Commission report, and learning from successful preventative policies such as the roll-out of the Scottish Child Payment. The strategy’s implementation will be evaluated and monitored by the Public Service Reform Board, which brings together scrutiny from public bodies, local government, and the third and private sector. The strategy has also been informed by a summit held in February involving representatives from Scotland’s 131 public bodies, local government and the third sector.

Learning from 25 years of Preventative Interventions in Scotland – gov.scot

Examples of previous reforms include:
- Investment in Early Learning and Childcare: The Scottish Government has invested around £1 billion every year in funded Early Learning and Childcare since 2021. Some 95% of three and four-year-olds are registered for the 1,140 hours funded childcare offer and 74% of parents have said it helped employment prospects.
- Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012: One of the biggest public service transformations since devolution, this created the Scottish Police Authority, the unified Police Service of Scotland (Police Scotland) and the single Scottish Fire & Rescue Service.
- Childsmile: Between 2003 and 2020, the Childsmile programme has halved tooth decay amongst children and generated significant cost savings for NHS health boards.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Woman arrested following murder in Camden

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 69-year-old woman was found dead in her home.

Met officers have arrested a 66-year-old woman on Wednesday, 18 June on suspicion of murder. She remains in police custody.

Police were called by the London Ambulance Service at 18:00hrs on Friday, 13 June to a report of an unresponsive woman at her home in Mornington Place, Camden.

Officers attended and found a woman with stab injuries. She was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

She has been identified as 69-year-old Jennifer Abbott. She was last seen by neighbours on Tuesday, 10 June walking her dog in the Camden area.

A post-mortem examination, which took place on Sunday, 15 June, gave cause of death as sharp force trauma.

The victim’s next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Detective Inspector Barry Hart, of Homicide Command, Specialist Crime North, said: “Our deepest sympathies are with the victim’s loved ones who are being supported by specialist officers at this time.

“We thank the local community for their patience as we continue to investigate this shocking crime. This arrest marks a significant step forward. There are several lines of enquiry ongoing, and we are working hard to establish the exact circumstances of this incident.

“Locals can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while we conduct our enquires.”

If anyone witnessed the incident, or has any information that can help the investigation, please contact the police as a matter of urgency on 101 quoting 6470/13JUN.

To remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org

MIL Security OSI –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Case of Missing Sullivan Children Added to Rewards Program
Source: Government of Canada regional news

The Province is offering a reward of up to $150,000 for information about the disappearance of siblings Lilly and Jack Sullivan.

On May 2, the RCMP started a missing persons investigation for Lilly, 6, and Jack, 4, after family members could not locate the children in their home or on the property in Lansdowne Station, Pictou County.

Family members reported they last saw Lilly inside the home and could hear Jack on the morning of May 2. The investigation has confirmed that both Lilly and Jack were with family members on the afternoon of May 1.

“The disappearance of Jack and Lilly Sullivan is felt across the province and beyond, and my heart goes out to the family, the community and everyone who has been working to find these children since Day 1,” said Becky Druhan, Attorney General and Minister of Justice. “Police and investigators are working tirelessly to find answers, and I urge anyone with information to please share this with the RCMP as soon as possible.”

Lilly Sullivan is described as four feet tall and weighing 60 pounds, with light brown hair and hazel eyes. At the time of her disappearance, Lilly was believed to be wearing a pink Barbie top, pink rubber boots with rainbow print and carrying a cream-coloured backpack with strawberry print.

Jack Sullivan is described as three feet six inches tall and weighing 40 pounds, with dark blonde hair and hazel eyes. At the time of his disappearance, Jack was believed to be wearing a pull-up diaper, black Under Armour jogging pants and blue rubber boots with dinosaur print.

Anyone with information regarding this crime should call the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program at 1-888-710-9090. People who come forward with information must provide their name and contact information and may be called to testify in court. All calls will be recorded.

People who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers of Nova Scotia at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Quick Facts:
- the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program is an additional tool to help police in major unsolved crime cases
- the reward amount will be based on the investigative value of the information provided
- including this case, there are now 122 active cases in the program
- employees of law enforcement and correctional agencies are not eligible to collect this reward
Additional Resources:

Cases under the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program are listed at: https://novascotia.ca/just/Public_Safety/Rewards

MIL OSI Canada News –
June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Berkeley County man arrested on 11 Child Sexual Abuse Material* chargesRead More

Source: US State of South Carolina

(COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Nathan Dwayne Reed, 25, of Hanahan, S.C., on 11 charges connected to the sexual exploitation of a minor. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the Attorney General’s Office made the arrest. Investigators with the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and Goose Creek Police Department, all also members of the state’s ICAC Task Force, assisted with this investigation.

Investigators received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which led them to Reed. Investigators state Reed distributed files of child sexual abuse material.

Reed was arrested on June 17, 2025. He is charged with 11 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, second degree (§16-15-405), a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment on each count.

The case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Office.

Attorney General Wilson stressed all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.

* Child sexual abuse material, or CSAM, is a more accurate reflection of the material involved in these heinous and abusive crimes. “Pornography” can imply the child was a consenting participant. Globally, the term child pornography is being replaced by CSAM for this reason.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Man jailed for life for drugging and raping 10 women as judge commends Met officers

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A senior judge has praised the Metropolitan Police Service following one of the most challenging and complex investigations conducted by detectives to bring a serial rapist to justice.

The case demonstrates the Met’s ongoing commitment to keeping women and girls safe and work to eradicate sexual violence, largely at the hands of predatory men.

Zhenhao Zou, 28 (20.02.97), of Churchyard Row, Elephant and Castle, was convicted of drugging and raping women both in the UK and China in March 2025. A jury found him guilty of 28 offences in total, including counts of voyeurism, possession of an extreme pornographic image, possession of a drug to commit a sexual offence and false imprisonment.

On Thursday, 19 June, he was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court to a life sentence. He will have to serve a minimum of 24 years.

The lengthy sentence reflects justice for the women who are victim-survivors of Zou and is testament to the extraordinary lengths gone to by investigators, who left no stone unturned in their pursuit to take a dangerous sexual predator off the streets.

Following the sentencing hearing, officers paid tribute to the brave victim-survivors, who have always remained at the very heart of the investigation.

During the sentencing hearing, the judge commended Met detectives DC Jack Woods and DC Oliver Colville, while paying tribute to the whole prosecution team.

Commander Kevin Southworth, of the Metropolitan Police Service, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts have always been with the courageous victim-survivors of Zou’s heinous and predatory crimes.

“Thanks to the remarkable efforts of our officers and prosecutors, a dangerous and cowardly offender has been handed a life sentence. I hope the fact Zou can no longer harm others serves as a small amount of comfort to the women who have suffered immeasurably.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to stress that our investigation remains open and we continue to appeal to anyone who may think they have been a victim of Zou. Please come forward and speak with our team – we will treat you with empathy, kindness and respect.”

The investigation

Before his arrest in January 2024, Zou was a student at University College London (UCL) since 2019 and prior to that studied at Queen’s University Belfast.

Zou used social media platforms and dating websites to target victim-survivors – all of which are believed to be of Chinese heritage. He lured women to his accommodation under the pretence of having a drink or studying and then plied them with drinks laced with drugs.

He filmed himself as he raped the woman as they lost consciousness.

Met investigators watched hundreds of these disturbing videos as they built a case of evidence against Zou. It was after analysis of this graphic and disturbing material that it became apparent that he had not only committed offences in London, but also in his home country of China too.

The prosecution team were unable to identify all of the victim-survivors captured, so relied on this video evidence to present a compelling case during the trial. Officers also meticulously pulled together over 4000 documents to leave no doubt in the jury’s mind about Zou’s guilt.

Alongside this, they downloaded around six and a half terabytes worth of data from Zou’s phones and laptops, which included around nine million messages. This is the equivalent to 1,664 hours of footage and is one of the biggest cases the Met’s digital forensics lab has ever dealt with.

Met officers spent months trawling through messages to understand Zou’s pattern of offending, scrupulously translating them into English from Simplified Chinese.

The appeal

Following Zou’s conviction, investigators shared that they believed Zou’s offending was much wider than the eleven rapes he was convicted of. They made a direct appeal to unidentified victim-survivors to come forward and seek specialist support.

Securing justice for the victim-survivors of Zou and putting him behind bars has been at the forefront of detective’s minds since the start of the investigation. To secure a conviction through a fair trial, officers made the decision not to appeal for further victim-survivors ahead of conviction. Sharing specific information relating to his offending may have caused the case to collapse, leaving Zou to offend again. By appealing post-conviction, the Met was able to share the fullest details to support potential victim-survivors coming forward.

Since the appeal in March 2025, 24 women have made reports to the police. These continue to be investigated thoroughly by a dedicated team of officers. Following the sentencing hearing, the team will continue to liaise with the Crown Prosecution Services around potential future charges.

Detectives continue to keep an open mind about the identities of unidentified victim-survivors but have been keen to speak to women from the Chinese student community – they may have been living in London between 2019-2024 or met Zou while he was living in China.

So far, investigators have not received any reports from women who met Zou while he was living in Belfast but remain in contact with Police Service Northern Ireland. They continue to encourage any current or former Northern Ireland residents who have concerns to come forward and speak to officers.

Saira Pike, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “Zou is a serial rapist and a danger to women. His life sentence reflects the heinous acts and harm he caused to women and the danger he posed to society.

“We have always been determined to seek justice for both the unidentified and identified victims in this case. We used an evidence-led approach that relied on the video recordings of Zou to ensure this dangerous predator faced justice.

“The prosecution team worked with the police for over a year to pick apart an unprecedented amount of footage and web chats showing his meticulous planning and the horrifying execution of his crimes.

“Following the police appeal, we will continue to review and consider any further charges to ensure that he is held accountable and seek justice for all victims.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to once again express my heartfelt thanks to the courageous women who came forward to report Zou’s horrific crimes. They have been incredibly strong and brave – there is no doubt that their evidence helped us to secure his conviction, and the life sentence handed to him today.”

How to contact the police and independent support agencies:

Reports relating to Zhenhao Zou can be made online via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP): https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO1 . The MIPP is also available in Simplified Chinese https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO2, so it is as accessible as possible for potential victim-survivors.

If you wish to speak to Met detectives or make a report relating to Zou, you can also contact police via email on survivors@met.police.uk

You can also make a report to police by calling 101 from within the UK, quoting reference 2904/04FEB25.

If you live in England or Wales and have been affected by this case and would like to seek support from specialist agencies, please contact the independent charity Rape Crisis via their 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line or call them on 0808 500 2222. Specially trained staff are there to listen, answer questions and offer emotional support.

MIL Security OSI –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Man jailed for drugging and raping 10 women as judge commends officers

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A senior judge has praised the Metropolitan Police Service following one of the most challenging and complex investigations conducted by detectives to bring a serial rapist to justice.

The case demonstrates the Met’s ongoing commitment to keeping women and girls safe and work to eradicate sexual violence, largely at the hands of predatory men.

Zhenhao Zou, 28 (20.02.97), of Churchyard Row, Elephant and Castle, was convicted of drugging and raping women both in the UK and China in March 2025. A jury found him guilty of 28 offences in total, including counts of voyeurism, possession of an extreme pornographic image, possession of a drug to commit a sexual offence and false imprisonment.

On Thursday, 19 June, he was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court to a life sentence. He will have to serve a minimum of 24 years.

The lengthy sentence reflects justice for the women who are victim-survivors of Zou and is testament to the extraordinary lengths gone to by investigators, who left no stone unturned in their pursuit to take a dangerous sexual predator off the streets.

Following the sentencing hearing, officers paid tribute to the brave victim-survivors, who have always remained at the very heart of the investigation.

During the sentencing hearing, the judge commended Met detectives DC Jack Woods and DC Oliver Colville, while paying tribute to the whole prosecution team.

Commander Kevin Southworth, of the Metropolitan Police Service, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts have always been with the courageous victim-survivors of Zou’s heinous and predatory crimes.

“Thanks to the remarkable efforts of our officers and prosecutors, a dangerous and cowardly offender has been handed a life sentence. I hope the fact Zou can no longer harm others serves as a small amount of comfort to the women who have suffered immeasurably.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to stress that our investigation remains open and we continue to appeal to anyone who may think they have been a victim of Zou. Please come forward and speak with our team – we will treat you with empathy, kindness and respect.”

The investigation

Before his arrest in January 2024, Zou was a student at University College London (UCL) since 2019 and prior to that studied at Queen’s University Belfast.

Zou used social media platforms and dating websites to target victim-survivors – all of which are believed to be of Chinese heritage. He lured women to his accommodation under the pretence of having a drink or studying and then plied them with drinks laced with drugs.

He filmed himself as he raped the woman as they lost consciousness.

Met investigators watched hundreds of these disturbing videos as they built a case of evidence against Zou. It was after analysis of this graphic and disturbing material that it became apparent that he had not only committed offences in London, but also in his home country of China too.

The prosecution team were unable to identify all of the victim-survivors captured, so relied on this video evidence to present a compelling case during the trial. Officers also meticulously pulled together over 4000 documents to leave no doubt in the jury’s mind about Zou’s guilt.

Alongside this, they downloaded around six and a half terabytes worth of data from Zou’s phones and laptops, which included around nine million messages. This is the equivalent to 1,664 hours of footage and is one of the biggest cases the Met’s digital forensics lab has ever dealt with.

Met officers spent months trawling through messages to understand Zou’s pattern of offending, scrupulously translating them into English from Simplified Chinese.

The appeal

Following Zou’s conviction, investigators shared that they believed Zou’s offending was much wider than the eleven rapes he was convicted of. They made a direct appeal to unidentified victim-survivors to come forward and seek specialist support.

Securing justice for the victim-survivors of Zou and putting him behind bars has been at the forefront of detective’s minds since the start of the investigation. To secure a conviction through a fair trial, officers made the decision not to appeal for further victim-survivors ahead of conviction. Sharing specific information relating to his offending may have caused the case to collapse, leaving Zou to offend again. By appealing post-conviction, the Met was able to share the fullest details to support potential victim-survivors coming forward.

Since the appeal in March 2025, 24 women have made reports to the police. These continue to be investigated thoroughly by a dedicated team of officers. Following the sentencing hearing, the team will continue to liaise with the Crown Prosecution Services around potential future charges.

Detectives continue to keep an open mind about the identities of unidentified victim-survivors but have been keen to speak to women from the Chinese student community – they may have been living in London between 2019-2024 or met Zou while he was living in China.

So far, investigators have not received any reports from women who met Zou while he was living in Belfast but remain in contact with Police Service Northern Ireland. They continue to encourage any current or former Northern Ireland residents who have concerns to come forward and speak to officers.

Saira Pike, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “Zou is a serial rapist and a danger to women. His life sentence reflects the heinous acts and harm he caused to women and the danger he posed to society.

“We have always been determined to seek justice for both the unidentified and identified victims in this case. We used an evidence-led approach that relied on the video recordings of Zou to ensure this dangerous predator faced justice.

“The prosecution team worked with the police for over a year to pick apart an unprecedented amount of footage and web chats showing his meticulous planning and the horrifying execution of his crimes.

“Following the police appeal, we will continue to review and consider any further charges to ensure that he is held accountable and seek justice for all victims.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to once again express my heartfelt thanks to the courageous women who came forward to report Zou’s horrific crimes. They have been incredibly strong and brave – there is no doubt that their evidence helped us to secure his conviction, and the life sentence handed to him today.”

How to contact the police and independent support agencies:

Reports relating to Zhenhao Zou can be made online via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP): https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO1 . The MIPP is also available in Simplified Chinese https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO2, so it is as accessible as possible for potential victim-survivors.

If you wish to speak to Met detectives or make a report relating to Zou, you can also contact police via email on survivors@met.police.uk

You can also make a report to police by calling 101 from within the UK, quoting reference 2904/04FEB25.

If you live in England or Wales and have been affected by this case and would like to seek support from specialist agencies, please contact the independent charity Rape Crisis via their 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line or call them on 0808 500 2222. Specially trained staff are there to listen, answer questions and offer emotional support.

MIL Security OSI –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Vala Umgodi operations net over 200 suspects

Source: South Africa News Agency

The South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Vala Umgodi operations continue to make progress with 239 suspects having been arrested throughout the country.

According to the police, the suspects were arrested for illegal mining-related offences and various other crimes that include, among others, attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm, possession of unpolished diamonds, unlawful possession of explosives and contravention of the Immigration Act.

On Tuesday, a 42-year-old Sydwell Shane Mkhantswa appeared briefly in the Kwa-Mbonambi Periodical Court in connection with a case of theft of minerals from Richards Bay Minerals (RBM).

His arrest relates to a tracing operation on 03 March 2024, when members of Operation Vala Umgodi and Kwa-Mbonambi police officers responded to reports of a truck which was intercepted carrying over R800 000 worth of suspected stolen Zircon from RBM.

Further investigation linked the suspect with another Kwa-Mbonambi case of theft of minerals in which he allegedly delivered RBM minerals to Isiphingo in Durban where police found over R24 million worth of suspected stolen minerals.

After several tracking and tracing operations, the suspect was cornered and arrested at a residence in Germiston, Gauteng on 12 June 2025.

The accused is scheduled to appear in court again on 24 June 2025, where he is expected to make a formal bail application.

In operations starting from 01- 15 June 2025, six unlicensed firearms, 26 rounds of ammunition and four vehicles were seized.

Other highlights per province for the past week include:
•    Limpopo: Vala Umgodi teams conducted disruptive operations at Sefateng Chrome Mine and Bokone Platinum Mine on 13 June 2025. Four suspects were arrested, and a large quantity of chromite ore and illegal mining equipment was seized.
•    Free State: Members deployed for Operation Vala Umgodi in Free State, acting on intelligence successful intercepted a white Toyota Quantum panel van travelling from Gauteng province en route to Cape Town, and discovered a consignment of Khat plants worth R210, 000. Police arrested a 43-year-old man on charges of possession of suspected drugs and drug trafficking.
•    Northern Cape: On 06 June 2025, members attached to Operation Vala Umgodi arrested 11 suspects aged between 29 and 44 years in Kimberley and Kleinzee, respectively. During the operations, members received information about suspected illegal miners hiding at a Game Reserve Farm near Koingnaas. The team operationalised the information, which resulted in the arrest of nine suspects and charged them for various offences, including contravention of Immigration laws, trespassing, and possession of unpolished diamonds.
•    Mpumalanga: A 30-year-old illegal miner was shot and injured during a shootout with members of Vala Umgodi operation in Sabie, on 11 June 2025. The suspect was initially admitted to Sabie Hospital under police guard and has since been discharged and placed in custody.
•    Gauteng: A wanted suspect was fatally wounded during a shootout with members of Operation Vala Umgodi on 13 June 2025. He was wanted for shooting at police officers at Zamimpilo Informal Settlement and was located at Soul City Informal Settlement. The team recovered a firearm that will undergo ballistic tests to establish if it was used in the commission of other crimes.
•    North West: Vala Umgodi operation continued its clampdown on illicit mining and immigration violations in. On 05 June 2025, members conducted disruptive illegal mining operation at Rocin mine in the area of Wolwerand, led to the seizure of illegal mining equipment that include various explosives, four generators, jack hammers, spades, a welding machine, gas bottles, a water pump, four pendukas and gold bearing material.

“With coordinated operations across the affected provinces, Operation Vala Umgodi continues to deliver results in its mandate to disrupt and dismantle illegal mining activities, specifically within and around mining communities.

“Since its inception December 2023, Operation Vala Umgodi led to the arrest of more than 27 000 suspects with more than 600 firearms, that include imitation firearms (toy guns) and 16 000 rounds of ammunition seized,” said the police. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Treasury to allocate additional R1.1 billion for political funding

Source: South Africa News Agency

An additional R1.1 billion in funding will be made available to political parties over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), says Finance Minister Enoch Gondongwana.

“Over the MTEF, an additional R1.1 billion in funding will be made available to political parties. Mindful of next year’s Local Government Elections, however, we are considering availing even further funding,” Gondongwana said on Thursday.

The Minister was speaking at the Electoral Commission’s (IEC) Political Party Funding Symposium underway in Durban.

In his address, the Minister said the performance of the economy and the lower revenue collection, presents serious challenges, which “may hinder the implementation of a common funding pool for political contestants supported by the fiscus”.

“In addition to the allocations to the IEC, from 2011/12 to date, funding of R3 billion has been provided to political parties to provide a baseline of public funding to help smaller or newer parties compete more effectively against well-established and privately funded ones,” the Minister said.

Gondongwana said a young democracy like South Africa relies on strong and independent institutions for its longevity and legitimacy.

“These institutions are key to maintaining the checks and balances that are the backbone of any democracy.”

Gondongwana said another equally important component is competitive elections by political parties that are not beholden to private interests and should therefore be publicly funded.

“Political funding in South Africa has historically been opaque, with little regulation or public disclosure until recent years,” he said, adding that for much of the democratic era, political parties were not legally required to reveal their sources of private funding.

“This raised concern about corruption, undue influence, and lack of accountability.

“This fundamentally shifted with the Political Party Funding Act (PPFA) of 2018, which came into effect on April 1, 2021.”

The Minister said despite these advances, challenges remain in enforcement, local transparency and curbing illicit financing.

“The implementation of the PPFA has in some measure led to a significant drop in private funding for many political parties, making it challenging for them to meet operational costs. There are other pitfalls to the PPFA that we must be honest about and work hard to overcome.

“Another challenge is that currently, the political party funding legislation does not extend to local government level. This is an area that we must address.

“As National Treasury and government as a whole, we must commit to improving transparency and oversight of political finance to prevent abuse by illicit networks.”

The Minister said good progress has been made in the course to remove South Africa from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.

“We have made good progress, as seen in our most update from FATF on our journey to being removed from the grey list, where our reforms to resolve systemic weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing, and to root the links with political party funding have been recognised.”

READ | SA completes actions to exit grey list

Godongwana said the ability to hold free and fair elections is a vital feature of any democracy, encompassing both procedural (periodic elections) and substantive (freeness and fairness) aspects.

“As custodians of the fiscus, we ensure IEC funding for successful elections. You are all aware of the announcement I made in the much-contested 2025 Budget Speech on funds allocated to the IEC for the hosting of the upcoming local government elections.

“We have allocated R885 million for the IEC and R550 million for the South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force to maintain public order.”

READ | Symposium looks into impact of political funding law

The Minister said democracy thrives on continuous debate and a level playing field for the contestation of ideas.

“Transparency is at the heart of party political funding. To make informed choices when voting, voters need to know who is behind the funding of political parties and what agendas they are pursuing. We must curtail opportunities for parties with questionable intentions to gain power.

“This requires a strong fiscus and responsible public finance management, shunning wastage and ensuring traceability of all money flows,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

June 20, 2025
PM Modi expresses grief over Pune road accident, announces financial aid for victims

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed grief over the loss of lives in a road accident on the Jejuri-Morgaon road in Pune. He announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 to the injured, to be provided from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF).

In a post on X, the PMO quoted PM Modi as saying, “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a road accident on the Jejuri-Morgaon road in Pune, Maharashtra. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000.”

On Wednesday, seven people died in a road accident on the Jejuri-Morgaon road in Pune district, Pune Rural Superintendent of Police (SP) Sandeep Singh Gill confirmed.

The accident involved a collision between a sedan and a pickup truck, he added.

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Presence delivers specialized training on sectorial analysis of financial crimes for Albanian State Police

Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

Headline: OSCE Presence delivers specialized training on sectorial analysis of financial crimes for Albanian State Police

In support of Albania’s National Strategy for the Prevention of Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism, the OSCE Presence in Albania organized a three-day training programme on sectorial analysis on financial crimes, from 17 to 19 June 2025. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the institutional capacity of the Albanian State Police, specifically of the Anti-Money Laundering Sector within the General Directorate.
Led by two national experts, the training was designed to strengthen the police analytical and operational capabilities in the field of economic and financial crime. It provided 12 officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to conceive and draft sectoral analyses in this field. These skills will support strategic planning, intelligence-led investigations and effective interagency co-ordination in combating money laundering, corruption and related financial offenses.
By delivering targeted capacity-building support, this training contributes directly to the implementation of the Albania’s National Strategy for the Prevention of Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism and reinforces the OSCE’s commitment to promoting effective, intelligence-driven policing in Albania.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strangulation in pornography to be made illegal
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Press release

Strangulation in pornography to be made illegal

The depiction of strangulation in pornography will be banned in a move to protect women from violence, the Government has announced.
Pornography depicting any act of strangulation to be made illegal through Crime and Policing Bill

Follows acceptance of Independent Porn Review recommendation

Protection of women and girls vital to Government’s Plan for Change

Recognising how dangerous online material is perpetuating the growing epidemic of violence against women and girls, the Government will criminalise pornography that depicts acts of strangulation.

The announcement, as campaigned for by Jessica Asato and others, follows the Independent Porn Review, conducted by Baroness Gabby Bertin, which found that media sources such as pornography have effectively established strangulation during sex as a ‘sexual norm’, and a belief that strangling a partner during sex is ‘safe’ because it is believed to be non-fatal despite overwhelming evidence that is is believed there is no safe way to strangle a person.

This is the latest step on the Government’s pledge to halve violence against women and girls, part of the Plan for Change.

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

Depicting strangulation during sex is not only dangerous, but also degrading, with real life consequences for women.

Cracking down on the appalling rise of strangulation pornography will protect women and send a clear signal to men and boys that misogyny will not be tolerated.

Andrea Simon, Director of the End Violence Against Women Coalition (EVAW) said:

We welcome the government’s decision to criminalise the depiction of strangulation in pornography, a move that reflects years of campaigning by EVAW and other experts who have long warned about the normalisation of violence against women and girls in online content.

There is no such thing as safe strangulation; women cannot consent to the long-term harm it can cause, including impaired cognitive functioning and memory. Its widespread portrayal in porn is fuelling dangerous behaviours, particularly among young people.

This is a vital step towards recognising the role violent pornography plays in shaping attitudes to women and regulating an industry which promotes and profits from violence against women.

The amendment will be made to the Crime and Policing Bill – central to the Government’s Plan for Change – making streets safer and the justice system stronger for victims.

Further information

The amendment builds on protections already in place within the Obscene Publications Act 1959, and the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 which criminalises the possession of extreme porn, which includes the depiction of life-threatening acts.

Further details of the amendment will be set out in due course.

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Published 19 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 19, 2025