NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Award winners impress with dedication and resilience

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Ms Vando Celestina Emmy Rabi is the 2024 Young Canberran Citizen of the Year.

    In brief:

    • The 2024 Young Canberra Citizen of the Year Award recipients have been announced.
    • The Awards celebrate Canberrans aged 12 to 25 who have made a significant contribution to the community.
    • There are seven categories in this year’s Awards.

    A young African-Australian community leader has won the 2024 Young Canberran Citizen of the Year Award.

    Ms Vando Celestina Emmy Rabi is an Executive Youth Leader at the African Australian Council ACT. She uses her lived experience to be a role model for young people.

    In 2019, Ms Rabi emigrated from South Sudan, aged 15. She had lost both her parents at a young age.

    Today she encourages celebrating African culture in Canberra. She promotes social cohesion and engagement in the broader community.

    Her advocacy promotes inclusivity. It also fosters a greater understanding of the experiences and contributions of African Australians.

    Winners and commendations

    The Young Canberra Citizen of the Year Awards celebrate Canberrans aged 12 to 25 who have made a significant contribution to the ACT community.

    The awards celebrate young people for achievements in fields such as sport, education, science, culture, the arts and the environment.

    There were seven categories in this year’s Awards.

    Young Canberra Citizen of the Year Award

    Winner: Ms Vando Celestina Emmy Rabi

    Ms Rabi is an Executive Youth Leader at the African Australian Council ACT. She is a powerful advocate for African-Australian youth. She celebrates African culture and promotes social cohesion, helping to reduce isolation and the impact of racial abuse, while encouraging broader community engagement.

    Commendation: Ms Tahalianna Mahanga

    Young Achiever Award

    Winner: Mr Seth Burr

    Seth Burr is a Leadership group member at his school. He is also a mentor for younger students and a member of ACT Scouts. He participates in ANZAC Day marches, Gang Shows, peer monitoring, school musicals and fundraising events. 

    Commendation: Ms Emma Booth

    Personal Achievement Award

    Winner: Miss Jasmine Eldridge

    Jasmine Eldridge, a single mother, has overcome many personal challenges. She has gained a diploma in Educational Studies. Through lived experience she advocates for young people with disabilities.

    Commendation: Ms Jemma Rule

    Individual Community Service Award 

    Winner: Mx Madison (Casey) Barancewicz

    Mx Barancewicz is actively involved in Youth Advocacy Groups, projects. These include the ACT Youth Advisory Council, Disability Youth Reference Group, Unruly Girls Youth Ethics Advisory Group, Member and The ACT Child and Youth Mental Health Sector Alliance, the Youth Mental Health Youth Reference Group (YRG). 

    Commendation: Miss Sonali Varma

    Environment and Sustainability Award

    Winner: Ms Anjali Sharma

    Ms Sharma is a climate activist. She introduced a Bill with Senator David Pocock, called the Climate Change Amendment (Duty of Care and Intergenerational Equity) Bill. She did this to compel the Federal Government to take the health of young people into consideration when approving developments that may release greenhouse gases.

    Commendation: Ms Yuna Rougeaux

    Commendation: Ms Neve Larsen

    Arts and Multimedia Award 

    Winner: Ms Tahalianna Mahanga

    Ms Mahanga is a proud young Wiradjuri and Tongan woman. She performs as a solo vocalist. She is also a youth advocate, including the ACT Student Representative at the National School Reform Agreement Ministerial Reference Group. She was involved with The Mindyigari Centre for Excellence at Erindale College and the Gugan Gulwan Youth Association.

    Commendation: Ms Grace Flanagan

    Group Achievement Award

    Winner: St Mary MacKillop College

    The Year 12 cohort at St Mary MacKillop College designed the ‘Relay Your Way’ event. This local community initiative celebrates cancer survivorship, honours those we’ve lost, and spurs on the fight against cancer. They raised over $75,000 for the Relay for Life this year, the highest fundraising total for Relay for Life across Australia.

    Commendation: ACT Child and Youth Mental Health Sector Alliance Youth Reference Group

    Nomination and assessment

    Anyone can nominate a young person for an award. People can also self-nominate.

    The nominations are assessed by representatives from the:

    • ACT Youth Advisory Council
    • ACT Government
    • award category sponsor.

    View past award winners.

    Find out more about the Awards.

    Read more like this:

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Call for witness – Aggravated robbery – Darwin CBD

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for a witness in relation to an aggravated robbery in Darwin CBD on Tuesday 15 April.

    Serious Crime detectives believe the man pictured could assist with enquiries and are requesting he contact police.

    Anyone with information on this man’s whereabouts is urged to contact police on 131 444 and reference job number NTP2500038888.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Twelve arrested in MHRA’s biggest ever crackdown on organised medicines trafficking

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Twelve arrested in MHRA’s biggest ever crackdown on organised medicines trafficking

    Dawn raids in four counties across the West Midlands and the Northwest of England this morning (29 April) dismantle major criminal network trafficking unlicensed medicines.

    Some of the medicines seized in raids today. Credit: MHRA

    Twelve suspects have been arrested in dawn raids in four counties across the West Midlands and the Northwest of England this morning (29 April) in the largest criminal investigation into organised medicines trafficking in the history of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

    The individuals have been arrested on suspicion of participating in the activities of an organised crime group, conspiracy to sell or supply controlled drugs and unlicensed medicines, and money laundering. Suspects are being held for questioning at police stations across the two regions.

    The raids across the West Midlands, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire and Merseyside follow a lengthy intelligence-led investigation, codenamed ‘Operation Subaru’, by the MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit. Around 150 officers were deployed in today’s operation, with MHRA staff supported by West Midlands and North West Regional Organised Crime Unit, the National Crime Agency, Staffordshire Police and Greater Manchester Police.

    In searches of 22 residential and commercial premises, hundreds of thousands of doses of medicines have been seized including controlled drugs such as opioid painkillers and anti-anxiety medicines, around £100,000 in cash, luxury watches and suspected criminal assets held in cryptocurrency. The MHRA has also obtained restraint orders for more than £3.5 million in assets suspected to be linked to criminal activity.

    Andy Morling, head of the MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit, said:

    “Today’s search and arrest operation follows a long, complex and thorough investigation by the MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit. Operation Subaru is the largest investigation we’ve ever undertaken and demonstrates the MHRA’s commitment to protecting the public by dismantling the organised international criminal networks that cause so much harm.

    “Trafficking in medicines destroys lives and places a huge financial burden on wider society. Our dedicated team will stop at nothing to tackle this illegal trade by taking potentially harmful medicines off the street and bringing those responsible to justice. As today’s operation shows, there is nowhere to hide.”

    “I’m extremely grateful to each of our law enforcement partners involved today for their substantial, enthusiastic and unwavering support.

    “I would also urge the public to be extremely cautious when buying medicines online. Medicines should only be obtained from a registered pharmacy against a prescription issued by a healthcare professional. Taking medicines sourced in any other way carries serious risks to your health – there are no guarantees about what they contain, and some may even be contaminated with toxic substances.

    The MHRA #FakeMeds website offers helpful guidance and advice for staying safe when buying medicines online.

    This operation is the latest step in the MHRA’s crackdown on illegal medicines trafficking. In 2024, the Agency’s Criminal Enforcement Unit and its partners in the Home Office’s Border Force removed more than 17.5m doses of trafficked medicines from circulation. The seized medicines, including painkillers, sleeping tablets and erectile dysfunction treatments, had a potential street value of more than £40 million.

    Notes to editors 

    1. The Criminal Enforcement Unit is the MHRA’s in-house law enforcement function, leading the Agency’s response to medicines crime. Its strategic mission is to protect the public, maintain confidence in regulation and uphold the rule of law by preventing offending where it can, disrupting offending where it cannot, and bringing offenders to justice where it should. It uses the full range of its powers and capabilities, including intelligence analysis, online disruption, covert techniques and asset recovery to tackle criminal threats to the UK public, working closely with the police and law enforcement agencies in the UK and overseas.

    2. Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from a medicine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, either through the Yellow Card website or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.

    3. The MHRA’s Accredited Financial Investigators are authorised by the National Crime Agency under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA). They support investigations by tracing, freezing, and confiscating assets linked to crime, including money laundering and the illegal supply of medicines. Their work includes seizing cash, valuable items, and freezing bank accounts or cryptocurrency suspected of criminal origins. The Home Office’s Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS) allows a proportion of the proceeds of crime recovered under POCA, to be redistributed to agencies involved in the asset recovery process.

    4. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.

    5. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.

    6. For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Take It Down Act Passes the House and Heads to President’s Desk

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar’s (FL-27)

    strong>(Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives passed the Senate version of the bipartisan, bicameral TAKE IT DOWN Act (S.146), completing its passage through Congress. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate in February 2025. The TAKE IT DOWN Act protects victims of real and deepfake ‘revenge pornography’ by criminalizing the publication of these harmful images, in addition to requiring websites to quickly remove them. The rising popularity of AI requires decisive federal legal protections that will empower victims of these heinous crimes, most of whom are women and girls.

    You can see Rep. Salazar’s remarks in front of the House of Representatives here. 

     

    “This is a historic day for parents and children facing unprecedented new challenges with technology. My TAKE IT DOWN Act will finally give innocent victims real protection from online exploitation. Websites and platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok must remove fake, compromising pornographic images within 48 hours or face consequences. No more inaction. No more excuses: if you exploit an innocent child, you will face jail time,” said Rep. Salazar (FL-27).

     

    “The TAKE IT DOWN Act’s passage is a significant step forward in Congress’ responsibility to protect the privacy and dignity of Americans against bad actors and the most harmful developments of AI. It takes only minutes to create a deepfake or share intimate images without consent, yet the lasting consequences devastate its victims — often girls and women. Our bill requires platforms to remove these horrifying images and videos from the internet within 48 hours. I’m deeply grateful to work with Sen. Klobuchar, Sen. Cruz, and Rep. Salazar to create this bipartisan federal law,” said Rep. Dean (PA-04). 

     

    “The publication of sexually exploitative images—including AI-generated deepfakes—is a terrifying reality of the digital age. I applaud the First Lady for her leadership and the Problem Solvers Caucus for working across party lines to pass the TAKE IT DOWN Act. This is a critical first step, and we must continue working together to protect people from these reprehensible acts,” said Rep. Suozzi (NY-03). 

     

    “As a father, husband, and proud South Texan, I’m glad we got this important bill across the finish line in the House and the Senate in a bipartisan way. The TAKE IT DOWN Act is a vital step in safeguarding the dignity and safety of individuals, particularly our most vulnerable. It ensures the swift removal of harmful content and holds perpetrators accountable—prioritizing the protection and well-being of those affected by deepfakes and non-consensual intimate imagery,” said Rep. Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28). 

    “The increasing use of artificial intelligence to create and circulate deep fake pornography threatens the wellbeing and security of its victims, primarily women. Perpetrators have used deep fake pornography as a tool to harass, humiliate, and intimidate women and children online, and we need to work together to protect against these threats. This is a serious and growing issue that requires urgent action, which is why I introduced the Take It Down Act. I am thankful it has been passed by the House, and I look forward to it promptly being signed into law,”said Rep. Dingell (MI-12) 

    “In an age where personal privacy can be violated with a click, the House’s passage of the TAKE IT DOWN Act marks a critical step forward. This bipartisan legislation creates long-overdue federal safeguards against non-consensual intimate imagery and the growing threat of AI-generated deepfakes. It establishes a clear legal standard: victims have the right to have these exploitative images removed, and perpetrators will be held accountable. This is a commonsense, essential measure to protect Americans, empower survivors, uphold justice, and bring our laws in line with the realities of the digital era,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick (PA-01).

    “There is nothing more personal than one’s image and dignity. NCII is a cruel and deeply violating issue, and with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, there has been a disturbing increase in these images online. The Take It Down Act is a crucial step in personal and internet security, and I am proud to help send this bill to President Trump’s desk. By introducing new protections against NCII content and criminalizing the publication of such content, we are making our world, both in person and online, safer for everyone,” said Rep. Bresnahan (PA-08) 

    “Congress must make sure there are protections in place, especially for minors, as technology rapidly evolves. Bipartisan support for and House passage of the TAKE IT DOWN Act is a critical step toward providing individuals who are victimized and inappropriately distorted through AI strong mechanisms to take action and remedy such traumatic situations,” said Rep. Edwards (NC-11). 

    “The passage of the TAKE IT DOWN Act is a historic win in the fight to protect victims of revenge porn and deepfake abuse. This victory belongs first and foremost to the heroic survivors who shared their stories and the advocates who never gave up. By requiring social media companies to take down this abusive content quickly, we are sparing victims from repeated trauma and holding predators accountable. This day would not have been possible without the courage and perseverance of Elliston Berry, Francesca Mani, Breeze Liu, and Brandon Guffey, whose powerful voices drove this legislation forward. I am especially grateful to my colleagues—including Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Rep. Maria Salazar, Rep. Madeleine Dean, First Lady Melania Trump, and House Leadership—for locking arms in this critical mission to protect Americans from online exploitation,” said Sen. Ted Cruz (TX). 

    “We must provide victims of online abuse with the legal protections they need when intimate images are shared without their consent, especially now that deepfakes are creating horrifying new opportunities for abuse. These images can ruin lives and reputations, but now that our bipartisan legislation is becoming law, victims will be able to have this material removed from social media platforms and law enforcement can hold perpetrators accountable,” said Sen. Klobuchar (MN). 

    Over 120 organizations representing victim advocacy groups, law enforcement, and leaders in the tech industry have voiced their support for the TAKE IT DOWN Act, including Meta, Snap, Google, Microsoft, TikTok, X, Amazon, Bumble, Match Group, Entertainment Software Association, IBM, TechNet, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Internet Works, the National Fraternal Order of Police, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), and the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE).

    The TAKE IT DOWN Act addresses these issues while protecting lawful speech by:

     

    • Criminalizing the publication of non-consensual intimate images (NCII), or the threat to publish NCII, in interstate commerce;
    • Permitting the good faith disclosure of NCII to assist victims including for law enforcement or medical treatment purposes;
    • Requiring websites to take down NCII within 48 hours of receiving notice from victims; and
    • Requiring that computer-generated NCII meet a “reasonable person” standard for appearing to realistically depict an individual, consistent with current First Amendment jurisprudence.

     

    Rep. Salazar reintroduced this bill in January and led the effort in the House to get it signed into law. President Trump endorsed the TAKE IT DOWN Act during a recent address to Congress. You can see his remarks here. The Act has been a legislative priority of former First Lady Melania Trump. Thanks to her strong advocacy, including a roundtable on Capitol Hill last month, this bill has now passed. 

     

    More information about the TAKE IT DOWN Act can be found here.

     

    The full text of the bill can be found here.

     

    The passage of the TAKE IT DOWN Act is Congresswoman Salazar’s ninth bill to be signed into law. Other key policies sponsored by Rep. Salazar that have been enacted into law include:

     

    • The COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Relief Act to provide economic relief for Floridians. Implemented by the Biden Administration in March 2021.
    • The Reinforcing Nicaragua’s Adherence to Conditions for Electoral Reform (RENACER) Act to sanction the Ortega Regime in Nicaragua. Signed into law in November 2021.
    • The PRICE Act to make it easier for small businesses to get federal contracts. Signed into law in February 2022.
    • The Summer Barrow Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Act to reauthorize critical funding for programs that address mental health and substance abuse issues. Signed into law in December 2022.
    • The REEF Act to incentivize retired Navy ships to be sunk and used as artificial reefs in marine ecosystems across America. Signed into law in December 2023.
    • The RECLAIM Taxpayer Funds Act to recover billions in fraudulent government loans and restore fiscal responsibility and government accountability. Implemented by the Biden Administration in December 2023.
    • The Migratory Birds of the Americas Conservation Enhancements Act to protect migratory birds and their habitat, which is critical for the Everglades. Signed into law April 2024.
    • The Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act honors 60 diplomats who risked their lives during World War II to save Jews from Nazi persecution. Signed into law December 2024.

    You can read more about Congresswoman Salazar’s legislative victories here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Mapleton Falls tragedy

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 29 Apr 2025

    We extend our sympathies to the family and friends of a woman who died in tragic circumstances at Mapleton Falls on Friday.

    The incident has impacted on the local community, and we thank the emergency services for their efforts during this time of need.

    Visitors to our protected areas are reminded to pay attention to all warning signs and barriers as they are there to keep you safe.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Helping Queenslanders co-exist with flying-foxes

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 29 Apr 2025

    Queensland communities will continue to receive critical support to reduce the nuisance impacts of flying-fox roosts, while supporting the conservation of these protected species.

    Round 8 of the highly successful Flying-Fox Roost Management – Local Government Grant Program opens on 30 April.

    Originally a four-year $2 million initiative scheduled to end in 2024, the program has been extended for a further three years, with an additional $1.5 million funding boost.

    Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Acting Deputy Director-General Andrew Buckley said the program ensured councils could continue to take meaningful action to reduce the impacts flying-fox roosts on communities, while enabling these protected species to continue to play their important ecological role.

    “Flying-foxes play a crucial role in ecosystems by pollinating native plants and dispersing seeds over vast distances, helping forests regenerate and maintain biodiversity and supporting the health of entire habitats, including those that many other species rely on,” Mr Buckley said.

    “But we know that for communities living near flying-fox roosts, they can have profound impacts due to the noise, odour and mess on the ground they generate

    “This grant program recognises this and helps local governments manage flying-fox roosts with a focus on long-term planning, roost modification, habitat rehabilitation, and innovative community engagement.

    “Since its launch, 29 councils have delivered 76 successful projects, ranging from tree trimming and roost maintenance to covered walkways, education programs and community grants.

    “Flying-foxes are a vital part of Queensland’s ecosystems, and this program empowers councils to balance biodiversity conservation with community wellbeing,” Mr Buckley said.

    Stream 1: Immediate/High-Priority Actions – for urgent on-ground works near roosts.

    Stream 2: Development of Roost Management Plans – to support long-term planning, and

    Stream 3: Implementation of Roost Management Plans – to bring management strategies to life.

    Applications for funding under Round 8 of the program close on 28 May 2025, with further details available here.

    Media contact:                 DETSI Media Unit on (07) 3339 5831 or media@des.qld.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Chile: Strengthening infrastructure resilience to face new and emerging hazards

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Chile: Strengthening infrastructure resilience to face existing and emerging hazards

    (In collaboration with UNDRR and CDRI)

    Stretching along Latin America’s Pacific coast from tropics in the north to freezing micro-climates in the south, Chile faces an array of natural hazards. Home to 20 million people, its location in the Ring of Fire and proximity to major tectonic plates exposes Chile to earthquakes and volcanic activity.

    February 2010

    a magnitude 8.8 earthquake and subsequent tsunami collapsed buildings, bridges, and highways.

    75% of the population

    was affected and the damage cost roughly USD 30 billion, or about 18 percent of Chile’s GNP.

    stated that  the annual average loss for Chile is USD 5.4 billion

    A high-income country recognized for its good governance, Chile has reduced many of the risks associated with earthquakes and tsunamis. However, the country must also adapt to the new and intensifying hazards related to climate. 

    Chile was one of the first countries, together with Bhutan, Madagascar, and Tonga, to implement the new Global Methodology for Infrastructure Resilience Review. Developed by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) the methodology helps countries to identify and prioritise the strategies that will build their infrastructure resilience through a five-step approach: 

    1

    Stakeholder mapping

    • Key ministries, regulators and operators in infrastructure development
    • Cross-sector coordination mechanisms

    Review of existing policies and regulations

    • Policies and regulations shaping infrastructure resilience
    • Integration of disaster risks in national plans and strategies

    Identification of vulnerabilities (Stress Testing)

    • Data collection on hazards and vulnerabilities
    • Multi-hazard resilience testing of infrastructure systems

    Principles for resilient infrastructure

    • Infrastructure resilience assessment using the UNDRR Resilience Principles
    • Identification of resilience-building interventions

    Development of an Implementation plan

    • Results validation and prioritization
    • Implementation plan with assigned responsibilities

    “With that in mind, we need to bring together a greater number of stakeholders to identify the vulnerabilities of our infrastructure systems and propose solutions. Without a doubt, we need to explore new solutions that involve more stakeholders in the system” she added.

    Advancing Infrastructure Resilience in Chile

    • Early start

    • Early start

      Within the disaster risk community, Chile stands out for its proactive approach to disaster risk. While saving lives is the top priority, the motivations are also economic. Between 2000 and 2019, damage to infrastructure accounted for 53 percent of all economic losses from disasters in the Latin American and Caribbean region. By enhancing its infrastructure resilience, Chile also protects its economy.

      Chile had already begun its search for new solutions to its disaster risk by the time Chile engaged with UNDRR and CDRI. In 2021, Chile replaced its National Emergency Office of the Ministry of the Interior and Public Safety (ONEMI) with SENAPRED, a new National Disaster Prevention and Response Agency, shifting the emphasis from recovery and reconstruction to disaster prevention. 

      Meanwhile, Chile’s new policies are also improving the resilience of Chilean infrastructure. New infrastructure projects require a disaster risk analysis, for example. Also, Chile’s 2022 Law on Climate Change (LMCC) requires sectoral, regional, and municipal authorities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote resilience to climate change. Such laws complement SENAPRED’s focus on disasters by focusing on hazards that can be slower to develop, such as water scarcity and desertification. 

      The implementation of these laws cannot come soon enough. Only a year after the LMCC was passed, climate change already began showing its impact. In 2023, a 14-year megadrought strained Chile’s freshwater reserves to breaking point.

      Followed by several days of persistent rainfall and flooding, the overwhelmed and parched landscapes resulted in a rapid runoff and flooding. Some 22,000 people were affected by the rains, the heaviest in 30 years, while swollen rivers blocked roads and left thousands of people isolated or in shelters. This event only highlighted the need to build resilience against multiple hazards that Chile has had.

    • The process

    • The process

      The Global Methodology for Infrastructure Resilience Review builds on UNDRR’s six Principles for Resilient Infrastructure, which set out the key conditions for sustainable infrastructure resilience. In doing so, the principles support the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and Sustainable Development Goals, as well as the G20 Principles for Investing in Quality Infrastructure. 

      However, each country needs its own paths to infrastructure resilience, which is why the Global Methodology for Infrastructure Resilience Review is important. It provides a structured approach for every country to review and enhance their infrastructure governance, identifying the opportunities to create resilience across government levels. 

      Chile implemented the methodology’s five steps at the national level from June 2023 to May 2024. A deep dive was then completed for the Biobío region in December 2024, adapting the Global Methodology to the regional level. The analysis focused on six sectors – water, energy, transportation, telecommunications, health and education. 

      The government was well represented throughout the process, bringing together stakeholders from the ministries of public works (MOP), transport and telecommunications (MTT), energy (MINEN), education (MINEDUC), health (MINSAL), social development (MIDESO), housing and urban planning (MINVU), international relations (MINREL), finance, defence, and environment (MMA). 

      While this broad representation in the assessment and workshops created a truly multi-stakeholder approach, the Chile pilot also looked at the role of the private sector, which manages a large portion of the country’s infrastructure. This raised questions in terms of coordination, information asymmetries, and the incentives for private companies to invest in disaster risk reduction. When a private company is managing public assets, for example, how can incentives be aligned so that the private company puts the public interest before its desire for profit?

    • Recognising drought

    • Recognising drought

      Stakeholders highlighted discussions of risk as a major strength, noting that the stress testing allowed for a broader assessment of existing infrastructure vulnerabilities, including pandemics and cyber risks. While other threats—such as violence, sea level rise, atmospheric pollution, invasive exotic species, and diseases—were considered, they were ultimately excluded from further analysis due to their limited impact on infrastructure.

      Prioritization of Threats in Chile

      Click to download the Prioritization of Threats in Chile table in PDF

      Drawing from data analysis and workshop discussions, participants ranked the greatest threats to Chilean infrastructure in the following order: drought, fires, floods, landslides, earthquakes, tsunamis, heat waves, tidal waves, and volcanic eruptions.

      Drought and water scarcity emerged as a priority because of their interdependent nature and potential cascading impacts on infrastructure systems. Around 53 percent of Chile’s territory is considered at high risk of drought, and 23 percent is at high risk of desertification. The central areas of Chile have experienced a nearly continuous megadrought since 2010.

      “The application of the global methdology allowed us to break new ground by conducting a hazard analysis in Chile specifically targeted to infrastructure, consolidating a systemic view and adding new elements that had previously gone unnoticed, such as droughts,” stated Luis Doñas, Project Coordinator, SENAPRED

      “Chile must now analyse these factors more closely to generate appropriate investment and make progress on key issues identified by stakeholders: territorial application, unification of information systems, strengthening intersectoral resilience training, and more decisive private sector involvement,” add Doñas

    • Protecting water

    • Protecting water

      Throughout the assessment, stakeholders distinguished between their infrastructure’s direct economic value and its critical functions. They also examined vulnerabilities, highlighting how the frequency and impact of different hazards can vary significantly between the regions. 

      Beyond these individual risks, the discussions also explored interdependencies between sectors and the potential for cascading failures. One key example is the relationship between water and energy in Chile. 

      After more than a decade of mega-drought, water supply companies have implemented contingency measures to limit the impacts in urban areas. However, the sustained dry conditions have seriously affected drinking water, irrigation, and other vital needs in rural areas. The proposed infrastructure assessment integrates advanced technology – such as desalination plants – with ongoing training and public education. Through a combination of short-, medium-, and long-term actions, the plan aims to enhance the resilience and sustainability of Chile’s water resources. 

      Water supply is not an isolated system, of course. It relies on other critical infrastructure, such as energy and transportation. Energy, in particular, is a priority as every other sector depends on it. A failure in the energy sector could trigger widespread cascading effects. To protect its energy infrastructure, Chile’s plan promotes advanced technologies and renewable energy solutions, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and strengthening long-term resilience.

      Chile’s water infrastructure does not have a massive economic value per se, but a sustainable water supply is vital for the health and welfare of Chile’s population. However, this supply depends heavily on other key infrastructure systems (such as energy or transportation) as well as surface and underground sources. These latter make it very vulnerable to interruptions such as drought.

    • Next steps

    • Next steps

      The process initiated in Chile concluded with establishing a Roadmap for Infrastructure Resilience, a strategic guide that will shape actions in this area for years to come. While the Roadmap outlines a series of proposals across six key infrastructure sectors, it also lays out a broader pathway for Chile to strengthen its infrastructure governance. 

      This includes better coordination, the incorporation of risk analysis into infrastructure planning and investment, better compliance, and more available and accessible risk data, including interactive platforms and information exchanges. In other words, Chile is committed to building more resilience into its infrastructure. 

      With this in mind, Chile has come up with three immediate actions.

      Click to download the Immediate Intervention scheme in PDF

      1.

      First, the Roadmap suggests establishing an intersectoral working group so that the necessary sectors and ministries can develop shared definitions and guidelines for resilient infrastructure. This group will receive extra training from a “Resilience Academy” involving both national and international experts. 

      Second, recognizing the sheer variety of hazards and territorial conditions across the country, Chile launched a regional-level infrastructure assessment to deepen risk analysis and develop improvements to governance. This process began in the Biobío Region, one of Chile’s 16 regions.

      2.

      Roughly 40 percent of Chile’s population and 40 percent of its economic activity are concentrated in the central region, where Santiago, the capital, is located. As a result, this area has a higher density of critical infrastructure increasing the infrastructure exposure to hazards. At the same time, remote regions remain highly vulnerable, as they often lack the resources and preparedness to withstand disasters effectively. 

      Each territory has its own unique needs, making it essential to tailor disaster risk reduction to local context.

      Distribution of hazards in micro-zones over the period 2000-2023

      3.

      Third, Chile will design and pilot an integrated data hub to consolidate risk-related information, enabling better monitoring, evaluation, and decision-making in risk management. The integrated data centre will serve as a unified system for tracking, reporting, and verifying the fragmented infrastructure resilience assessments and diagnostics currently dispersed across different sectors and agencies. By centralising this information, Chile will strengthen infrastructure planning and enhance its disaster risk reduction. 

      Implementing these and other measures will also move Chile towards a more resilient infrastructure, aligning with UNDRR’s principles for resilient infrastructure. This will better position the country to tackle current challenges, but also to enhance its ability to adapt to new and emerging hazards. 

      Collaboration will be key to success. Achieving resilience will require continued collaboration between government, business, and civil society. By enabling new analyses and multi-stakeholder workshops, the Global Methodology for Infrastructure Resilience Review has played a crucial role in fostering vital trust between the different stakeholders. 

      “The infrastructure resilience review process achieved excellent work by bringing together different partners, and we now undoubtedly have a space for collective responsibility to strengthen our infrastructure ecosystem from a disaster risk perspective,” said Alicia Cebrián, National Director of SENAPRED

    Download the full report:
    Roadmap for Infrastructure Resilience in the Republic of Chile

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements releases latest information and appeals to public and visitors to plan cross-boundary trips in advance for Labour Day Golden Week of Mainland

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements, led by the Chief Secretary for Administration, released the following information today (April 29) on the traffic and public transport arrangements for the upcoming Labour Day Golden Week of the Mainland.

         During the Labour Day and the Birthday of the Buddha holidays, in anticipation of a large number of members of the public, vehicles and Mainland visitors travelling to and from the Mainland or Macao via various land-based BCPs, particularly on May 1, 3 and 5, the Transport Department (TD) urged the public and visitors to plan their trips in advance and allow sufficient travelling time.

         The TD has co-ordinated with local and cross-boundary public transport operators (PTOs) to strengthen their services during the holidays, including increasing the frequency of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) shuttle bus (Gold Bus) to less than one minute during peak hours, and the Lok Ma Chau-Huanggang cross-boundary shuttle bus (Yellow Bus) to about two minutes at its highest frequency, as well as increasing the quota of cross-boundary coaches to strengthen services. The frequency of local franchised bus B routes connecting various land-based BCPs will also be increased to a level higher than that of normal weekends or Sundays while franchised bus operators concerned will reserve sufficient vehicles and manpower to meet the travel needs of passengers. The MTR Corporation Limited will enhance the train services of the East Rail Line between Admiralty and Lo Wu/Lok Ma Chau at different times from May 1 to May 5 to provide convenience for the travelling public and visitors. It is anticipated that the waiting time for public transport services, including the Gold Bus, may be longer. Passengers should make their journeys during non-peak hours, observe order while queuing and heed advice from on-site Police and staff of PTOs concerned. Passengers of cross-boundary coaches are also advised to reserve their coach tickets in advance.

         Of note, motorists are advised that, subject to actual traffic conditions, special traffic arrangements may be implemented at the Lok Ma Chau Control Point and the Shenzhen Bay Port from May 1 to 5 to allow smooth access of public transport vehicles to the above control points. Cross-boundary private cars may need to queue up for crossing the BCPs. Motorists should pay extra attention to variable message signs and traffic signs along the roads. In case of traffic congestion, they should remain patient and follow the instructions of on-site police.

         For the HZMB, to plan their journeys ahead, members of the public can make use of the TD’s HKeMobility mobile application (hkemobility.gov.hk/en/traffic-information/live/cctv) to access snapshots of traffic conditions at inbound and outbound vehicle plazas of the HZMB Hong Kong Port. They can also check real-time situations of the vehicle clearance plaza of the Zhuhai Port through WeChat official accounts “hzmbzhport” or “zhuhaifabu” (traffic-info.gzazhka.com:5015/#/) (Chinese only), and check the forecasts of peak hours of inbound and outbound vehicles at the HZMB Zhuhai Port through the WeChat official account of the HZMB integrated information dissemination platform (mp.weixin.qq.com/s/PXLza25svheLQZuTXSbwFQ) (Chinese only). Moreover, motorists are reminded to always comply with the traffic control measures implemented by the Zhuhai authority when driving on the HZMB Main Bridge. Vehicles shall not occupy the emergency lane unless instructed by the Zhuhai authority.

         The TD’s Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre will continue to operate 24 hours to closely monitor the traffic conditions and public transport services of different districts including various BCPs and major stations. The TD will disseminate the latest traffic information through various channels. Members of the public are advised to check the latest traffic news through radio and television broadcasts, and the HKeMobility application.

         The interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements is tasked with holistically co-ordinating and steering the preparatory work of various government departments for welcoming visitors to Hong Kong during the Labour Day Golden Week of the Mainland, as well as strengthening information dissemination to enable the public and visitors to plan their itineraries according to the latest situation.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chief Executive appoints Council for Carbon Neutrality and Sustainable Development

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Chief Executive appoints Council for Carbon Neutrality and Sustainable Development 
    The new term of the CCN&SD will continue to be chaired by Dr Lam Ching-choi. Two new members have been appointed to the CCN&SD. They are Dr Alexander Law Chun-bon and Mr Ricky Lui Kon-wai. Fourteen serving members have been reappointed.
     
         “We warmly welcome the reappointment of Dr Lam as the Chairman of the CCN&SD as well as the appointments of the two new members. We look forward to the continued support of the CCN&SD to advise the Government on decarbonisation strategies and promote participation in deep decarbonisation by different sectors of the community,” a spokesman for the Government said.

    The membership of the new term of the CCN&SD is as follows:
     
    Dr Lam Ching-choi (Chairman)
    Ms Chan Shin-kwan
    Ms Sabrina Chao Sih-ming
    Mr Daniel Cheng Man-chung
    Ms Natalie Chung Sum-yue
    Professor Gong Peng
    Mr Thomas Ho On-sing
    Dr Alexander Law Chun-bon
    Mr Ricky Lui Kon-wai
    Dr Ma Jun
    Mr Daryl Ng Win-kong
    Mr Shun Chi-ming
    Mr Colin Tam Shiu-tung
    Mrs Annie Yau Tse
    Ms Jeny Yeung Mei-chun
    Dr Daniel Yip Chung-yin
    Dr William Yu Yuen-ping
    Secretary for Development*
    Secretary for Environment and Ecology*
    Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs*
    Secretary for Housing*
    Secretary for Transport and Logistics*
     
    * or Permanent Secretary
    Issued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCST begins visit to UAE (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SCST begins visit to UAE  
    In the morning, Miss Law had a fruitful exchange with the UAE Minister of Sports, HE Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, where they shared their visions and identified common ground in advancing their cities as global hubs for major international sporting events, professionalising the sports industry, leveraging sports as a key economic driver, and fostering unity among community through sports participation. Miss Law introduced Hong Kong’s commitment to nurturing elite sports talents by providing comprehensive support and professional training for local athletes. Miss Law also highlighted the vibrant horse racing culture in Hong Kong. HE Dr Al Falasi shared similar efforts made and policies implemented by the government of the UAE to develop sports in the country. Miss Law extended her invitation to HE Dr Al Falasi to visit Hong Kong to explore further opportunities for sports co-operation and exchange.
     
    Miss Law then paid a courtesy call on the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Dubai, Ms Ou Boqian. During the meeting, she reported on the recent work of the Culture, Sports, and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) and outlined plans to fostering collaboration and building stronger connections between Hong Kong and the Middle East. Ms Ou shared her insights into the UAE’s cultural and tourism landscape, highlighting potential opportunities for cooperation between the two regions. She emphasised that Hong Kong has competitive advantages in high-end tourism, horse racing tourism, and yacht tourism, which presented significant potential for further development.
     
    In the afternoon, Miss Law attended the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, a leading international event for the Middle East’s hospitality industry. She toured various pavilions, engaged with local trade representatives, and explored potential collaborations between Hong Kong’s tourism sector and the Middle East market. During the event, Miss Law witnessed the signing of two Memorandums of Understanding at the Hong Kong Pavilion between the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and two major travel agents in the Middle East, Musafi.com and Almosafer International Travel and Tourism Company, which aimed to establish a framework for future co-operation.
     
    Miss Law also met with the Group Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways, Mr Engr Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, and the Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer of the Emirates, Mr Adnan Kazim, in the pavilion at the ATM. They discussed strengthening partnerships to promote Hong Kong as a premier travel destination for Middle East markets.
     
    In the evening, a dinner reception was co-organised by the CSTB, the HKTB, and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Dubai. The event welcomed around 70 guests, including key partners from the Middle East’s tourism industry, along with distinguished travel trade leaders and industry representatives from Hong Kong. In her opening remarks, Miss Law highlighted Hong Kong’s multifaceted tourism offerings, which catered to visitors of all ages and interests. She also pointed to the new Kai Tak Sports Park as an exciting development that will host world-class sports and entertainment events. She underscored Hong Kong’s commitment to becoming a Muslim-friendly destination, reiterated Hong Kong’s eagerness to deepen ties with the Middle East, not only by welcoming visitors from the region but also by encouraging more Hong Kong people to explore the Middle East for both leisure and business.
     
    Miss Law will continue her visit to the UAE today (April 29, Dubai time).
    Issued at HKT 2:48

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Adoption of Decree-Law No 48 of 11 April 2025 laying down provisions prohibiting production and marketing of industrial hemp and hemp products in Italy – E-001571/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001571/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dario Nardella (S&D), Camilla Laureti (S&D), Stefano Bonaccini (S&D), Alessandra Moretti (S&D), Giorgio Gori (S&D), Giuseppe Lupo (S&D), Pina Picierno (S&D), Sandro Ruotolo (S&D), Brando Benifei (S&D), Pierfrancesco Maran (S&D), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Annalisa Corrado (S&D), Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Valentina Palmisano (The Left)

    On 12 April 2025, Decree-Law No 48[1] came into force, which brought forward and immediately applied the rule originally laid down in in Article 18 of the Safety Decree, which prohibits the production and marketing of industrial hemp inflorescences and derivatives. The measure extends the system of penalties established for narcotics to operators in the industrial hemp sector, resulting in criminal penalties also being applied for activities governed by and in compliance with EU law, which, by means of Regulation (EU) No 1307/2013 and Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013, authorises the cultivation of certified varieties of Cannabis sativa L with a THC content no higher than 0.3 %.

    The rule hits a sector that, in Italy, comprises more than 3 000 companies, employs up to 30 000 people and is geared overwhelmingly towards exports.

    In the light of the adoption of those measures, can the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.Does it consider a measure of that kind, which criminalises the marketing of crop products authorised at EU level, to be compatible with EU law?
    • 2.Does it not agree that measures of that kind not notified by means of the TRIS procedure could constitute an unjustified barrier to the free movement of goods within the internal market?
    • 3.Will it take measures to protect economic operators who are subject to criminal sanctions at national level, despite their compliance with EU legislation? If so, what form will they take?

    Submitted: 17.4.2025

    • [1] https://www.gazzettaufficiale.it/eli/id/2025/04/11/25G00060/SG.
    Last updated: 29 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community Payback Orders – Unpaid work or Other Activity Requirements: February 2005

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland

    The Chief Statistician has released figures on Community Payback Orders (CPOs) unpaid work or other activity requirements today.

    The publication covers the changes in rates of progression during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, information on the number of hours imposed by the courts for this requirement and the number of unpaid work hours to be progressed.

    In 2023-24, there were 15,100 CPOs imposed by the courts, which included 1.39 million unpaid work hours imposed as part of unpaid work requirements.

    There has been an increase of 7% in the number of CPOs issued in the first 11 months of 2024-25, compared to this period in 2023-24.

    In February 2025, there was 867,300 unpaid work hours to be progressed. This is an increase of 9% from February 2024.

    An estimate of the number of unpaid work hours imposed between February 2024 to January 2025 was in the range of 1.48 to 1.54 million hours. When compared with previous time period this showed an increase of at least 7%. The increase in hours imposed is a contributing factor to the increase in unpaid work hours to be progressed.

    Background

     Full statistical publication is available on Scottish Government website.

     Official statistics are produced in accordance with the Code of Practice for Statistics.

     This information relates to only one of the 10 requirements that can be imposed for Community Payback Orders (CPOs). The unpaid work or other activity requirement (abbreviated to unpaid work) is one of the most common to be imposed. Unpaid work requirements are continuously being imposed, and, at the same time, existing requirements are being completed.  Completing unpaid work requirements takes time and, as a result, there will always be outstanding hours in the system while requirements are being progressed.

    The data for this publication comes from four different data sources. Therefore, estimates are used to allow reporting on the same time-frame. Changes to the recent unpaid work hours to be progressed should be treated with caution due to seasonal fluctuation. It is better to look at the overall annual trend than focus on the changes in the last two quarters.

    Further statistics on Justice Social Work

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Horotiu Road

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)


    Location:

    Police can confirm one person has died following an earlier crash south of Te Kowhai.

    The single vehicle crash happened at around 4:40pm.

    Sadly, the driver has died at the scene.

    Horotiu Road remains closed.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 28 April 2025 Yury Trutnev: EEF big contributor to development of Far East and President’s instructions Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and Presidential Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yury Trutnev chaired a meeting in Vladivostok on preparations in the lead-up to the 10th Eastern Economic Forum, which is scheduled to take place on the campus of Far Eastern Federal University on 3–6 September. The EEF is being organized by the Roscongress Foundation.

    Source: Eastern Economic Forum

    28 April 2025

    Yury Trutnev: EEF big contributor to development of Far East and President’s instructions

    Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and Presidential Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yury Trutnev chaired a meeting in Vladivostok on preparations in the lead-up to the 10th Eastern Economic Forum, which is scheduled to take place on the campus of Far Eastern Federal University on 3–6 September. The EEF is being organized by the Roscongress Foundation.

    “The Eastern Economic Forum has contributed much over the years to the development of the Far East and the fulfilment of the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. Thousands of people from all over the world attend the EEF every year, and no sanctions or anything else will succeed in weakening interest in it. The Russian Far East is a huge region, and its development affects its neighbours and the entire world. We will do our best as always to ensure that our guests receive all the information they seek and are able to carry out their work in comfort and safety at the Eastern Economic Forum,” Trutnev said as he opened the meeting.

    The composition of the Forum programme was considered in detail.  

    “We discussed possible themes for the EEF, and I believe it would be impossible to ignore the Soviet nation’s victory in the Great Patriotic War. Our proposal for the main theme is going to be something like ‘The Far East: From Victory to Victory’, though we’ll think a bit more about the exact wording. The Second World War ended in the Far East. The President of the Russian Federation has ordered us to prepare a major exhibition on the island of Shumshu, where the Kuril landing took place, to educate young people and remind all of us about the heroic feats that led to the great victory,” Trutnev said.

    The Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East and Arctic suggested including in the business programme topics of vital importance to regional development and possible integration with the economy of the broader Asia-Pacific region.

    “We would focus in particular on technological development. Technology is changing the world now. It is changing the very fabric of life. And many of these technologies either originate in Asia or are first brought to market here. We would like to see the Far East play a bigger role in this process and believe it can. We would like to use new tools like our international advanced-development territories to ensure that these technologies are created and replicated in Russia,” Minister for the Development of the Russian Far East and Arctic Alexei Chekunkov said.

    First Deputy CEO of the Roscongress Foundation and Director of the Eastern Economic Forum Igor Pavlov touched on organizational issues and how preparations for the 10th Eastern Economic Forum were getting along.

    “A great many events have been planned for EEF 2025, including the ‘Welcome to the Far East!’ exhibition, which traditionally enjoys the participation of federal ministries and agencies. And the sports programme will include a special patriotic Parade of Sails, rowing competitions, a hockey match, a run, and more,” Pavlov said.

    According to Governor of Primorsky Territory Oleg Kozhemyako, the region has been following the roadmap laid out last year in its preparations for the Forum. Funds have been set aside in the regional budget for the construction of the region’s pavilion at the Far East Street exhibition, sports and cultural programmes, medical care, and road inspections. A special unit has been tasked with ensuring electrical supply, and preparations are underway on transmission lines and at power facilities. Law enforcement agencies are coming together to create a task force to ensure public order and security. 25 hotels in Vladivostok and Artem are on call to accommodate Forum guests and participants in 1,600 rooms.

    Mayor of Vladivostok Konstantin Shestakov reported on the measures being implemented as part of the preparations for the Forum in the capital of the Far Eastern Federal District in landscaping, road infrastructure, sanitation and security, building facades, and catering and cultural events. Work has been planned to repair roads, paint elevated and underground pedestrian crossings, and fix metal and concrete fences, bus stops, and bridges. The storm water drainage system will also be cleaned, sunken manholes fixed, pavement and curbs touched up, graffiti and unauthorized advertising removed, and concrete surfaces and road infrastructure painted. The city itself will receive an important facelift, with private investors funding 10 objets d’art across the route that will be travelled by guests through the city. Special events, concerts, and evening programmes are also being planned for the city’s open-air venues, with additional cultural initiatives for Forum participants and the residents of Vladivostok in development.

    Far Eastern Federal University President Boris Korobets spoke about the preparation of the Far Eastern Federal University campus for the Forum, with large-scale modernization of infrastructure to begin in May and student service brigades to take part in campus renovation work for the first time this year, for which volunteers are currently being recruited. For the fourth year in a row, FEFU will work together with the Russian Znanie Society to organize a lecture hall for the students and youth of Primorsky Territory at the Forum. 350 top students and talented schoolchildren will attend in person, with another 8.5 million people expected to join the event online. This year, the lecture will focus on the end of World War II, the contribution of the Soviet nation to the fight against fascism, and the events of the Soviet-Japanese War of 1945. A new visual attraction will be installed in the park on FEFU’s central square in the form of a 50-metre-high flagpole flying a 150-square-metre tricolour. As part of the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland announced by the President of Russia, an Alley of Heroes will be established in the campus park and dedicated to the Russian heroes serving their country in the special military operation from all eleven regions of the Far East.

    The regions of the Far East are also preparing for this tenth anniversary forum. As in the past, they will present their economic achievements and unique culture and customs at the Far East Street exhibition. 11 region and five industry pavilions have been planned this year: two pavilions for the Ministry of Sport of Russia, the ‘Business’ and ‘GTO Arena’; the Far East and Arctic Development Corporation’s ‘Developing the Far East’ Pavilion; the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Russia’s ‘Falcon House’ Pavilion; and the ‘Corporation Turizm.RF’ Pavilion. The pavilions dedicated to the regions will focus on economic and social achievements of the past ten years, provide information about investment projects, advanced technological developments, and the implementation of master plans for the development of the cities of the Far East, and the celebration of the 80th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War. An alley dedicated to brands from the Far East is being organized in conjunction with ASI and will present the goods manufactured in the region.

    Also discussed during the meeting were issues of sanitary and epidemiological safety to be addressed during the preparation for EEF 2025.

    “The EEF is a well-prepared, balanced tool for attracting investment to the Far East that allows all federal executive authorities to see whether they are fulfilling the President’s instructions and for investors to understand that they are on the right track. And we will protect what we have here, even as we turn now to the content and move forward, work on the sessions, and think about how to set the right tasks,” Trutnev said in conclusion.

     

    Read more

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chair appointed for public inquiry into Nottingham attack

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Chair appointed for public inquiry into Nottingham attack

    Former senior circuit judge, Her Honour (HH) Deborah Taylor, has been appointed by the Lord Chancellor to chair the statutory inquiry into the Nottingham attacks.

    HH Deborah Taylor

    • Her Honour Deborah Taylor to chair Nottingham inquiry
    • Holistic review to provide recommendations to prevent similar incidents
    • Full Terms of Reference to be published in due course

    Barnaby Webber, Grace O’Malley-Kumar, both 19, and Ian Coates, 65, were tragically killed and three other survivors were seriously injured by Valdo Calocane in Nottingham in June 2023.

    Speaking in the House of Commons today (April 22), the Lord Chancellor confirmed HH Deborah Taylor would undertake a thorough, independent assessment of the events that culminated in these brutal attacks, and provide recommendations to prevent similar incidents.

    The statutory inquiry will have the power to examine all the agencies involved, including the Nottinghamshire Police and the Crown Prosecution Service; compel witnesses, and establish the facts. The Prime Minister has committed that the inquiry should report within two years.

    The bereaved families and survivors of the attack were present in the public gallery during the Lord Chancellor’s announcement.

    Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood said:

    The bereaved families and survivors of the Nottingham Attack, who have suffered so much, deserve to know how these horrific attacks were able to happen.

    I am pleased to appoint Her Honour Deborah Taylor as the Chair of this inquiry. She brings deep experience to the role, and I know she will undertake a fearless and thorough examination of the facts.

    The Chair, a retired senior circuit judge, has already engaged with survivors and victims’ families, and taken views on the draft Terms of Reference, which will be laid in due course.

    Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), Alex Davies-Jones, said:

    My thoughts remain with the bereaved families and survivors of this terrible incident, who in the face of such tragedy, have consistently called for an Inquiry.

    It is important for the bereaved families and survivors that this Inquiry reports without undue delay which is why the Prime Minister has committed the inquiry should report in two years.

    Notes to editors:

    • With the Chair in place and the inquiry being formally established today, it can begin preliminary work immediately. The final terms of reference will be published as soon as possible.
    • There have been nine separate reviews into various elements of the Nottingham attacks including: Valdo Calocane’s healthcare and the healthcare institution; actions by Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire Police; and decisions of the CPS.  IOPC investigations into the actions of Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire police are ongoing.
    • The Law Commission is undertaking a review into homicide law and will consider the partial defence of diminished responsibility.
    • HH Deborah Taylor was a Senior Circuit Judge, Resident Judge at Southwark Crown Court and Recorder of Westminster until her retirement from the Judiciary in December 2022. In 2022 she was Treasurer of Inner Temple, where she advocated for greater diversity at the Bar.
    • Deborah will continue in her role as Chair of the Criminal Legal Aid Advisory Board which she has held since July 2023

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: LFC Premier League Victory Parade Confirmed

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Last updated:

    The Leader of Liverpool City Council, Councillor Liam Robinson, has invited Liverpool Football Club to parade the city’s streets to officially celebrate securing their 20th English league title.

    After Arne Slot’s team triumphed against Tottenham Hotspur yesterday, the City Council has hit the green light on initiating its complex parade protocol, with plans for the Premier League trophy parade to take place on Bank Holiday Monday, 26 May, from 2.30pm.

    The major logistical challenges in arranging a parade of this scale, which is expected to be witnessed by hundreds of thousands of people, means months of planning has already been taking place behind the scenes with stakeholders across the city. Given the magnitude of the event, organisers are keen for the date to be publicised in advance so residents and businesses in the city can prepare.

    The victory parade route will start at Allerton Maze and will travel north bound on Queens Drive towards the Fiveways roundabout and Rocket flyover. From there it will journey along:

    • Queens Drive

    • Mill Bank

    • West Derby Road

    • Islington

    • Leeds Street

    • The Strand

    • Route finishes at Blundell Street

    It is expected the 15km-long parade will last anywhere between 3 to 5 hours, but this is subject to change.

    As in 2019 and in 2022, the key advice to supporters to line the entire route, plan travel in advance and supporters are reminded that bringing their own pyrotechnics/flares is prohibited in order to protect the safety of all in attendance.

    Those planning to line the route and cheer the team on should expect the city to be extremely busy, not only on the Monday, but also in the days beforehand as Liverpool is hosting the major music event, Radio 1 Big Weekend.  Cunard’s Queen Anne will also be sailing into the city on Monday 26 May, which is expected to also attract crowds.

    More information and advice will be issued by the City Council and partner agencies (Liverpool Football Club, Merseyside Police and Merseytravel) in the run up to the date.

    The full costs of the parade will be met by Liverpool Football Club.

    The parade is being organised by Liverpool City Council’s award-winning Culture Liverpool team, which has been praised for its work on the previous victory parades, and is also responsible for bringing other major events to the city, such as Eurovision 2023 and this year’s Radio 1 Big Weekend.  

    Leader of Liverpool City Council, Councillor Liam Robinson, said:

    “We’re delighted to officially invite Liverpool Football Club to parade around the city on the 26 May. A Liverpool victory parade is more than football – it’s a celebration of our city’s pride, passion and community spirit.

    “It’s going to be a bumper weekend in Liverpool, with Radio 1 welcoming more than 100,000 people to Sefton Park, the final Premier League match on the Sunday, Cunard’s Queen Anne sailing into the city on Monday, on the same day as the parade – any other city may shy away from back-to-back high-profile events, but as one of the world leader’s when it comes to staging major, successful and safe outdoor activities, Liverpool is set to shine once again under the global spotlight.

    “A huge amount of work goes on behind the scenes in preparation for an event of this size and scale, and there has already been months of careful planning taking place as the Team Liverpool approach – which we saw work so well throughout Eurovision – comes to the fore again.

    “It’s set to be an unforgettable Bank Holiday Weekend as we give the team the celebration they deserve.”

    Chief Inspector Chris Barnes, the Silver Commander for the event, said:

    “We have been working with Liverpool City Council, who are organising the event, and will be supporting them with the running and policing of the Victory Parade Monday, 26 May, to ensure the event goes ahead safely and disruption to regular road users and people living and visiting the city is minimal.

    “Officers will be providing a reassuring presence  along the route to ensure that that day is not only one to remember, but also an enjoyable and safe event for all those attending the parade.

    “Rolling road closures will be put in place to accommodate the parade and although we will work with Liverpool City Council to keep disruption to a minimum, some traffic disruption is inevitable and we would ask motorists to be patient, or avoid the area of parade route where possible.

    “If you have plans already for Monday (26th May) or are going to be driving in and out of the area, I would ask you to familiarise yourself with the route so you can fully prepare, make alternative travel arrangements in advance, or use available public transport wherever possible.

    “We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Liverpool Football Club on their success. The parade on Monday, 26 May, will be a fantastic event for the players, the club, the city, and all the fans who will turn out to cheer their team on through the streets of Liverpool.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advisory: Police exercise at Mānawa Bay is now live

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can advise that a planned training exercise at Mānawa Bay, near Auckland Airport is now under way.

    The public are reminded that they may see tactical Police staff and other emergency services outside the centre.

    There is no cause for alarm.

    This exercise is taking place outside of Mānawa Bay’s operating hours.

    Mānawa Bay and its car park are closed to the general public.

    Police will issue a further advisory once the exercise is completed.

    ENDS

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Unexplained death, Feilding

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police were called to an address on Campbell Street in Feilding at around 12.50pm today, after a person was found deceased at the property.

    The death is being treated as unexplained at this time.

    A scene guard has been put in place overnight and a scene examination will take place tomorrow.

    We know the police presence will be unsettling for Campbell Street residents, however we want to reassure them there is no cause for alarm.
     

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eight countries launch Operational Taskforce to tackle violence-as-a-service

    Source: Europol

    The exploitation of young perpetrators to carry out criminal acts has emerged as a fast-evolving tactic used by organised crime. This trend was underlined in the European Union Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment 2025 (EU-SOCTA), which identified the deliberate use of youngsters as a way to avoid detection and prosecution.Recruitment, manipulation, exploitationViolence-as-a-service refers to the outsourcing of violent acts…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Death following St Leonards crash on 17 April

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Death following St Leonards crash on 17 April

    Tuesday, 29 April 2025 – 4:30 pm.

    Sadly, police can confirm a 32-year-old man has died in Southern Tasmania.
    The man was the passenger in a vehicle involved in a crash on Johnston Road at St Leonards on 17 April.
    Following the crash the man was flown to hospital in a serious condition and has since passed away.
    Sadly the 27-year-old woman who was the driver of the vehicle died at the scene of the crash.
    Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the crash.
    A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Tarakinikini appointed as Fiji’s ambassador-designate to Israel

    By Anish Chand in Suva

    Filipo Tarakinikini has been appointed as Fiji’s Ambassador-designate to Israel.

    This has been stated on two official X, formerly Twitter, handle posts overnight.

    “#Fiji is determined to deepen its relations with #Israel as Fiji’s Ambassador-designate to Israel, HE Ambassador @AFTarakinikini prepares to present his credentials on 28 April, 2025,” stated the Fiji at UN twitter account.

    Tarakinikini is also Fiji’s current Ambassador to the United Nations.

    In a separate post, Deputy Director-General Eynat Shlein of Israel’s international development cooperation agency said she was “honoured” to meet Tarakinikini.

    “We discussed the vast cooperation opportunities, promoting & enhancing sustainable development, emphasizing investment in capacity building & human capital,” she said on X.

    Fiji is only the seventh country in the world to open an embassy in Israel.

    Republished from The Fiji Times with permission.

    Centre of controversy
    Pacific Media Watch     reports that Lieutenant-Colonel Tarakinikini was at the centre of controversy in Fiji in 2005 when he was declared a “deserter” by the Fiji military.

    However, from 1979 to 2002, he served in the Fiji Military Forces, including eight years in United Nations peacekeeping missions, among them, south Lebanon and the Multinational Force in Sinai, Egypt.

    Beginning in 2003, he was the UN Department for Security and Safety’s (UNDSS) Chief Security Adviser in Jerusalem, as well as in Kathmandu, Nepal, from 2006 to 2008.

    From 2008 to 2018, he served in numerous United Nations integrated assessment missions, programme working groups, restructuring and redeployments and technical assessment missions.

    ‘Weapons of war’
    Yesterday, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) began week-long hearings at The Hague into global accusations of Israel using starvation and humanitarian aid as “weapons of war” and failing to meet its obligations to the Palestinian people in Gaza as the occupying power in its genocidal war on the besieged enclave.

    Forty countries are expected to give evidence.

    The ICJ has been tasked by the UN with providing an advisory opinion “on a priority basis and with the utmost urgency”.

    Although the ICJ judges’ opinion is not binding, it provides clarity on legal questions.

    In January 2024, the ICJ ruled that Israel must take “all measures” to prevent a genocide in Gaza.

    Then in June, it said in an advisory opinion that Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza was illegal.

    Both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant are wanted on arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to face charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police officer unjustified in driving into and punching a man in Whitianga

    Source: Independent Police Conduct Authority

    8 April 2025

    The Independent Police Conduct Authority has found that a Police officer was unjustified in ramming a man with his patrol car and punching him seven times, after the man used a skateboard to smash the patrol car’s windscreen and window. Both the officer and the man were injured.

    The incident occurred on 9 March 2023, when two officers went to an apartment complex in Whitianga to arrest the man for aggravated robbery. One officer drove to the scene while the second approached on foot from another direction. As the first officer drove into the carpark, the man walked towards him, yelling and raising his skateboard before striking the windscreen and the driver’s window.

    The officer was covered in shattered glass which got into his eyes. He said he feared for his life. Although he initially started driving away, he decided to turn back. He says he did this out of concern that the man would attack the second officer. Upon seeing the man again walking towards him holding the skateboard, the officer rammed him with the patrol car. The man became airborne before landing between the car and a fence. The officer then got out of his car and punched the man seven times in the head area before the second officer arrived and handcuffed the man. The incident was captured on CCTV.

    Police charged the man with intentional damage and intentionally injuring the officer. On 12 June 2023, the man was convicted on both charges.

    Police also charged the officer with common assault and assault with intent to injure. The case was tried before a judge and jury on 16 May 2024, and the officer was acquitted.

    While the Authority accepts that the officer acted in defence of himself and the second officer when ramming the man with his car, we found that the officer’s response was a disproportionate and unjustified use of force, considering that the slightest miscalculation or loss of control could have resulted in a fatality.

    In respect of the punches, the Authority did not accept that the officer genuinely believed the man still posed a threat. This use of force was, therefore, also unjustified.

    Public Report 

    Use of Police vehicle as a weapon and punching in Whitianga unjustified (PDF 408 KB)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police breach policy during fatal fleeing driver incident at Manukau

    Source: Independent Police Conduct Authority

    10 April 2025

    The Independent Police Conduct Authority has found that officers at Manukau breached policy when involved in a fleeing driver incident that resulted in a crash and death of a man (Mr Z).

    At about 11.42pm on 17 June 2024, a Police unit in the Manukau CBD stopped and briefly spoke to Mr Z due to his car having stolen number plates. Mr Z drove away at speed. Within a minute, another Police unit signalled Mr Z to stop but he failed to do so. Officers in that second unit failed to comply with policy when they did not abandon a pursuit by way of stopping and turning off their emergency lights.

    Two other officers were a short distance away on Lambie Drive and heard events on the Police radio. They decided to set up road spikes to try to stop the car. The Authority found that these officers breached policy by not informing Comms of their plan, although we acknowledge the event was fast moving.

    When an officer stepped out from behind a signboard to throw the spikes onto the road, Mr Z swerved and lost control of the car, which struck a tree and caught fire. Officers summoned assistance and used fire extinguishers to put out the fire, before assisting Mr Z and his female passenger. Their actions in this respect were commendable.

    Mr Z died at the scene and his passenger was seriously injured.

    It transpired that the car was stolen (separately from the stolen number plates), Mr Z had methamphetamine in his system, he was breaching a court-imposed curfew, and he was driving dangerously. However, we found that if officers had complied with existing Police policy, this crash might have been avoided.

    This case highlights the need for officers to understand the ‘Fleeing Driver’ and ‘Tyre Deflation Devices’ policy requirements and the reasons behind them, which are for their own safety as well as the safety of others. We did not recommend that Police consider charging any of the officers involved with a criminal offence.

    The Authority acknowledges this matter involves the death of a man and injury to a woman and we extend our sympathy to those involved.

    Public Report

    Police breach policy during fatal fleeing driver incident at Manukau (PDF 562 KB)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash following Police pursuit near Otaki

    Source: Independent Police Conduct Authority

    Fatal crash following Police pursuit near Ōtaki

    15 April 2025

    On 26 April 2024, Police began a brief pursuit of a stolen Ford Courier ute traveling south from Levin on State Highway 1, because it had been involved in an aggravated robbery in Ōtaki. The pursuit was abandoned promptly due to the excessive speed.

    Subsequently, the ute was observed driving north in the southbound lane of the expressway. The ute ultimately collided head-on with a Toyota Fortuner SUV north of Ōtaki. The driver of the Ute, 16-year-old Reihana Hawea, was pronounced dead at the scene. Another passenger, Tama Whakarau, later succumbed to injuries at the hospital, while a third passenger sustained serious injuries but survived the incident. The four occupants of the Toyota Fortuner sustained injuries ranging from serious to moderate, but all survived.

    The Authority conducted an independent investigation, which concluded that, overall, the Police managed the fleeing driver incident appropriately. Notably, the Police considered closing the road to minimise risks to other road users. However, this option was ultimately deemed unfeasible given the circumstances.

    We identified some minor breaches of the ‘Fleeing driver’ policy, including:

    • Officer B, who was a crew member in the leading pursuit vehicle, should have managed the radio communications;

    • Officer D should not have followed the fleeing vehicle with his warning lights activated, as this briefly recommenced the pursuit; and

    • Officer A should not have activated his warning lights without first obtaining permission from the pursuit controller.

    The Authority is recommending that Police amend their ‘Fleeing driver’ policy to specify that when a Police vehicle is carrying crew members, those crew members are responsible for managing Police communications during pursuits.

    Public Report

    Fatal crash following Police pursuit near Ōtaki (PDF 625 KB)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police actions during the investigation and prosecution of defendants for the murder of Mr Palmiro MacDonald

    Source: Independent Police Conduct Authority

    The Independent Police Conduct Authority examined complaints regarding the actions of three Police officers, referred to as Officers A, B, and C, involved in the investigation and the subsequent trial of the defendants accused of murdering Mr Palmiro MacDonald on 23 March 2016.

    The defendants’ legal representatives raised concerns regarding all these officers.

    Officer A interviewed a prisoner, Witness A, who reported that a defendant in the same facility admitted to his involvement in Mr MacDonald’s murder and implicated co-defendants. The defence counsel complained that Officer A did not adequately document his interactions with Witness A or disclose necessary records before the pre-trial hearing.

    Officer B, the second in charge of the murder investigation, was responsible for disclosure. The defence counsel complained that he failed to disclose a letter of assistance that Witness A received for cooperating, which was vital for challenging Witness A’s credibility. It was also said that Officer B did not inform the Solicitor-General about this letter when submitting an affidavit supporting the Crown’s application for Witness A’s anonymity, and that he wrongly asserted that Witness A had no reason to be dishonest. The Crown Prosecutor initially dismissed the defence’s concerns about the undisclosed letter. It was only during cross-examination at the pre-trial hearing that the letter was acknowledged and disclosed to the defence.

    The application for anonymity was unsuccessful. Following this, Officer C, along with the Crown Prosecutor and his junior, met with Witness A in prison to discuss the situation and ascertain whether he would be willing to give evidence without anonymity. After their meeting, the Crown Prosecutor instructed Officer C not to record his presence or that of his junior in his notebook. Officer C did note their presence in his notebook, but later submitted a job sheet to the Court that omitted this information. The defence counsel expressed concerns that Officer C’s notebook was not disclosed as it should have been and that his actions misled the Court and could potentially constitute an offence of perverting the course of justice.

    The Authority has found that:

    • Officer A’s notetaking was adequate.

    • Officer A’s failure to disclose his interview notes and Witness A’s letters, while not intentional, constituted a breach of his obligations.

    • Witness A’s letter of assistance should have been disclosed to the Court.

    • The failure to disclose the document was a mistake rather than a deliberate act.

    • Officer A should have informed the investigation team that he had uploaded a copy of the letter of assistance into the special case folder he had created.

    • Officer B should have followed up with either Officer A or D about the status of this document.

    • Officer C should not have omitted to record the presence of the Crown prosecutor and his junior at the meeting in his job sheet.

    • Officer C did not mislead or attempt to mislead the Court.

    • Officer C’s conduct did not amount to an attempt to pervert the course of justice.

    • Officer C did not state that he disclosed all the information he had.

    • On the evidence, it is not possible to make a finding on the issue of disclosure of Officer C’s notebook.

    The Authority is recommending that Police prescribe in policy that interviews conducted for the purpose of taking statements from prison informant witnesses should be audio or video recorded as standard practice.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Custody officer uses unjustified force in Manukau Custody Unit

    Source: Independent Police Conduct Authority

    Custody officer used unjustified force in Manukau Custody Unit

    17 April 2025

    The Independent Police Conduct Authority has found that a custody officer used unjustified force on a male prisoner in the Counties Manukau Custody Unit.

    On 14 November 2023, a 19-year-old man was received into the District Custody Unit at Manukau. While in a holding cell, he began banging his head backwards against a concrete wall. Custody officers told him to stop and warned him that he would otherwise be placed in a restraint chair. However, the man banged his head a further three times.

    While a restraint chair was being prepared, Custody Officer A went into the cell alone and pulled the man to his feet. The man resisted and moved into a corner of the cell, where Custody Officer A struck him while attempting to restrain him.

    Two other custody officers entered and assisted in removing the man from the cell. As they escorted him towards the door, Custody Officer A punched the man in the face, saying that he believed the man was about to spit at him.

    We found that custody officers should have made further attempts to stop the man from banging his head before looking to use a restraint chair, which should only be used as a last resort. Custody officers also failed to seek authority from a supervisor before using the restraint chair, as is required by Police policy.

    We found that Custody Officer A should not have intervened on his own as there was no immediate threat to the man’s safety, and that it was unreasonable and unjustified for him to strike the man while in the corner of the cell.

    Custody Officer A was justified in using force to stop the man from spitting at him. However, by punching him in the face, he used excessive force to do so.

    Police completed their own investigation. They concluded it was not in the public interest to charge Custody Officer A but conducted a disciplinary process regarding his use of excessive force. We agree with this process and outcome.

    The Authority completed its investigation in July 2024 but was obliged to wait for Police processes before publishing its report.

    Public Report

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Horotiu Road closed, serious crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Horotiu Road south of Te Kowhai is blocked due to a serious crash.

    Police were called to the crash, in which a single vehicle hit a power pole, about 4:40pm.

    Traffic is being diverted at Woolrich Road.

    Initial indications are that there are critical injuries.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been advised and contractors are on site for the power pole.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rosanna Law meets UAE sports chief

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law yesterday met Emirati officials and attended Arabian Travel Market 2025, a trade show, as she began a visit to Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.

    In the morning, Miss Law met the UAE’s Minister of Sports HE Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi. The two discussed the development of Hong Kong and the UAE as global hubs for major international sporting events, professionalising the sports industry in both places, leveraging sports as a key economic driver, and fostering unity in society through sports participation.

    Miss Law spoke of Hong Kong’s commitment to nurturing elite sports talent by providing comprehensive support and professional training. She also highlighted the city’s vibrant horse racing culture. HE Al Falasi outlined the policies being implemented to develop sports in the UAE.

    Miss Law also extended an invitation to the minister to visit Hong Kong to explore further opportunities for sports co-operation.

    After the meeting, Miss Law paid a courtesy call on Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Dubai Ou Boqian. She reported on the Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau’s recent work and outlined plans to foster collaboration between Hong Kong and the Middle East.

    In the afternoon, Miss Law attended Arabian Travel Market 2025, a leading international event for the Middle East’s hospitality industry.

    At the expo, she witnessed the signing of two memoranda of understanding at the Hong Kong Pavilion between the Hong Kong Tourism Board and two major travel agents in the Middle East, aimed at establishing a framework for future co-operation.

    Additionally, she met senior management from two airlines, Qatar Airways and Emirates, to discuss strengthening partnerships to promote Hong Kong as a premier travel destination for Middle East markets.

    In the evening, a dinner reception was co-hosted by the bureau, the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office in Dubai, with around 70 guests attending.

    In her opening remarks, Miss Law described Hong Kong’s multifaceted tourism offerings, which she said can cater to visitors of all ages and interests. She also pointed to the new Kai Tak Sports Park as an exciting development that will host world-class sports and entertainment events.

    In addition, Miss Law underscored Hong Kong’s commitment to becoming a Muslim-friendly destination, and reiterated the city’s eagerness to deepen ties with the Middle East, not only by welcoming visitors from the region but also by encouraging more Hong Kong people to explore the Middle East for both leisure and business purposes.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police exercise at Mānawa Bay tonight

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are advising the public about a planned training exercise taking place at Mānawa Bay tonight.

    This has been in planning with support from emergency services as well as our partners at Auckland Airport and Mānawa Bay.

    Please be advised that the exercise is taking place outside of Mānawa Bay’s operating hours.

    Volunteers will be taking part in the exercise and the centre is not open to the general public.

    The public will see a presence of Police and other emergency services outside Mānawa Bay.

    There is no cause for alarm.

    Police will provide updates when the exercise commences and when it is completed.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The government plans to regulate carbon capture technologies – but who will be the regulating agency?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Barry Barton, Professor of Law, University of Waikato

    The Icelandic company Carbfix has developed a technology to store carbon dioxide. Shutterstock/Oksana Bali

    Newly released documents add more detail to the government’s plans for a regulatory framework to enable carbon capture and storage.

    But they show indecision on two key matters – the legal framework and the agency that would be in charge.

    The plan relates primarily to conventional carbon capture and storage technologies, which remove carbon dioxide from an industrial gas flow and dispose of it deep underground.

    It also covers some methods of carbon dioxide removal, an emerging but as yet commercially untested suite of technologies such as enhanced rock weathering, bio-energy capture and direct air capture.

    The latter technologies are not predicated on fossil fuel consumption and could operate in many different situations.

    Neither kind of carbon removal is a simple answer to the climate challenge and the priority remains on cutting emissions. But we need to have regulatory frameworks in place for both reduction and removal technologies of all kinds, and soon.

    Earning credits from emissions trading

    Both types of technologies will benefit from the government’s decision to allow companies to get credits in the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) for the disposal of carbon dioxide from any source. Credits will not be tied to any one technology, according to the released policy discussion documents.

    It’s also a positive development that an operator can get credits as a separate removal activity, not merely as a reduction of an existing emissions liability (although official advice was initially against separate credits). This allows for diversity in the players and the systems for removals.

    The government has decided it will assume liability for any carbon dioxide leaks from geological storage, but only after verification that fluids in the subsurface are behaving as expected after closure, and no sooner than 15 years after closure.

    Leaks this long after injection are unlikely, but we nevertheless need strong regulation, financial assurance to guarantee remedial action and clear liability rules.

    Companies will be able to earn credits for the permanent disposal of carbon dioxide.
    Shutterstock/VectorMine

    The government also states ETS credits will only be available for removals that can be recognised internationally against New Zealand’s commitments to cut emissions. This would apply only to geological storage but not deep-ocean deposition or rock weathering.

    But that’s not quite right. The general international rules already allow the inclusion in a national greenhouse gas inventory of removals from any process. Detailed methodologies for carbon dioxide removal are likely to become available within the next few years.

    With change underway, New Zealand’s new regime should allow a wide range of removal methods to receive credits.

    A new regulatory regime

    The documents acknowledge that New Zealand needs a broader regulatory regime, beyond the ETS, to cover the entire process of carbon dioxide removal. The suitability of a disposal site must be verified, a detailed geological characterisation is required and the project design and operation need to be approved.

    Approval is also required for closure and post-closure plans, and systematic monitoring. Monitoring is everything; it must be accurate and verifiable but also cost effective. The operator will have to pay for monitoring for decades after site closure.

    In agreeing on these features, the government is following the examples of many countries overseas, including Australia, Canada, the UK and the EU.

    However, it is intriguing that the government hasn’t decided where this new regime should sit in the statute book, and who should manage it. Much of the apparently relevant text in the documents has been redacted.

    Given that carbon dioxide would be stored underground, the Crown Minerals Act is one possibility. But this legislation is all about extraction, not disposal. Although the New Zealand petroleum and minerals unit at the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment has expertise in regulating subsurface operations, it focuses largely on oil and gas, not on innovative climate projects.

    The Resource Management Act certainly provides a regulatory approval regime, but it is awaiting reform and would need much more than the currently proposed changes to deal with carbon capture and storage or removal properly. So would legislation covering activities within New Zealand’s exclusive economic zone.

    Indeed each act would require a whole new part to be added, with its own principles and procedures. There is a lot to be said for a standalone new act, in a form that would fit with the emerging Natural Environment Act that will replace the Resource Management Act.

    The new legislation and regulation regime could be administered by the Environmental Protection Authority, which is already involved in Resource Management Act call-ins and fast-track approvals, the legislation covering the exclusive economic zone and the ETS.

    One can only guess there might be tensions between contending factions in government. What we should ask for is a legislative and institutional arrangement that allows carbon capture and storage or removal technologies to evolve and grow without being a mere offshoot of the oil and gas industry or any other existing sector.

    As part of our efforts to reduce emissions, we must make sure all kinds of removal technologies are available that truly suit New Zealand.

    Barry Barton is part of the project “Derisking Carbon Dioxide Removal at Megatonne Scale in Aotearoa” which is funded by the MBIE’s Endeavour Fund. In the past, he has received funding from MBIE and the gas industry for research on CCS legal issues.
    He is a director of the Environmental Defence Society.

    – ref. The government plans to regulate carbon capture technologies – but who will be the regulating agency? – https://theconversation.com/the-government-plans-to-regulate-carbon-capture-technologies-but-who-will-be-the-regulating-agency-254696

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –