NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI Security: JASDF hosts annual mochi-pounding ceremony

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan,  –  

    The Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s Operation Support Wing hosted its annual mochi-pounding ceremony, bringing together U.S. and JASDF personnel to celebrate cultural exchange and teamwork at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Dec. 13.

    The centuries-old tradition involved steaming glutinous rice before rhythmically pounding it with large wooden mallets in a mortar to create a sticky dough. Symbolizing unity and prosperity, mochi-pounding marks the arrival of the New Year in Japan. Once prepared, the mochi was shaped into small round cakes and served as part of the traditional celebratory meal.

    The ceremony not only celebrates Japanese culture but also provides a unique opportunity for U.S. and JASDF personnel to collaborate and strengthen their bonds through shared customs. This year’s event saw both JASDF and U.S. military personnel working together to prepare the mochi, fostering teamwork and cultural understanding.

    “At Yokota, the mochi-pounding ceremonies are a bit unique,” said Keisuke Kitano, JASDF Operational Support Wing liaison. “This event allows us an opportunity to welcome U.S. members and share Japanese culture, promoting exchange and teamwork.”

    The annual mochi-pounding ceremony highlights the strength of the partnership between U.S. and Japanese forces. It not only fosters cultural understanding and mutual respect but also strengthens community bonds, offering both forces a unique opportunity to work together and build lasting friendships.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DeWitt Post Office Station Manager Indicted for Stealing Stamps

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Emilio Chirico, age 56, the Station Manager for the DeWitt, New York Post Office, has been charged by indictment with wire fraud, misappropriation of postal funds, and false entries and reports, announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Matthew Modafferi of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG). 

    The indictment alleges that between January 2021 and March 2023, Chirico stole $81,553.94 in stamps from the DeWitt Post Office and falsified postal records to conceal the theft of the stamps.  Chirico has been the station manager at the DeWitt Post Office since March 2012.

    The charges filed against Chirico carry a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.

    The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) is investigating the case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tamara B. Thomson and Michael F. Perry.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Fatal crash, SH 6, Kingston

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now name the man who died in a crash on State Highway 6 near Kingston on 19 December.

    He was Timothy Peter Herrick, aged 36 of Invercargill.

    Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CENTCOM Conducts Airstrikes Against Iran-Backed Houthi Missile Storage and Command/Control Facilities in Yemen

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    Dec. 21, 2024
    Release Number 20241221-01
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted precision airstrikes against a missile storage facility and a command-and-control facility operated by Iran-backed Houthis within Houthi-controlled territory in Sana’a, Yemen, on Dec. 21 Yemen time.

    CENTCOM forces conducted the deliberate strikes to disrupt and degrade Houthi operations, such as attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the Southern Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb, and Gulf of Aden.

    During the operation, CENTCOM forces also shot down multiple Houthi one way attack uncrewed aerial vehicles (OWA UAV) and an anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) over the Red Sea. 

    The operation involved U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy assets, including F/A-18s.

    The strike reflects CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment to protect U.S. and coalition personnel, regional partners, and international shipping.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: Transcript – Sunrise

    Source: Minister of Infrastructure

    SALLY BOWREY: Power will be given back to Australian travellers with a raft of new rights for cancelled and delayed flights. The initiative is designed to keep airlines honest and hold the industry accountable in some of the biggest travel reforms in a decade. 

    JAMES TOBIN: For more, we’re joined by Transport Minister, Catherine King. Good morning Catherine. Now, as someone who does quite a lot of travel, normally on the road with weather, catches a lot of flights, I am all ears on this one. What’s it going to mean for passengers?

    CATHERINE KING:  Well, what it will mean for passengers is that you get what you pay for, so either you’re able to enforce your rights to be able to get a refund or actually get the flight that you’ve actually asked for. And so, we’ve put out a draft charter of rights today. They’re out for consultation until the 28th of February. And really it is about enforcing the rights that you’ve booked a flight and that you should get what you actually pay for. So, there’s a range of rights in the draft charter that will ensure that airlines, and airports as well, actually lift their game when it comes to delivering the services that so many of us use to get around the country to work, to actually visit family, get to medical appointments, all of those things. So really, that’s what we’re doing today. It forms part of the ombudsman scheme that we’ve developed as part of the Aviation White Paper work we did this year. That scheme will be legislated next year, and the Charter of Rights really does spell out what you should be entitled to. It’s backed up by the Australian Consumer Law, what you’re entitled to if your flight doesn’t go ahead. So, if your flight is delayed by three hours or more at the fault of the airline, you should expect to be able to at no cost to yourself, get your flight rebooked either with that airline or another airline. If, because of time sensitivity, you can’t take another flight, they should be giving you a refund for that. Or if you’re stuck in not in your port where you live, you should be able to get accommodation and meals and again at no cost to yourself.

    SALLY BOWREY: And I think anyone, when you pay for something, you expect to actually get the product. And we do, have some pretty dismal stats in terms of, you know, flight delays, 30% of flights are delayed. So, I think the report is showing that it can take also up to almost 100 days for customers when they complain this is way too long. So, it is promising to push airlines to really reduce that. How will the new rules actually hold them to account to make sure that issues are resolved quickly?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, the first thing is that the Charter of Rights basically spells out very clearly what travelling public’s rights actually are. And so, we want to make sure that’s got out widely so people are aware of exactly what their rights are to enforce them in the first instance, to try and resolve the dispute with the airline, or if it’s a dispute with the airport, and then it’s backed up by an ombudsman scheme that is legislated. So, in the same way you’ve got a telecommunications ombudsman scheme, people, if they can’t get a remedy, then can go to the ombudsman and basically then have that referred up and they’ll do the work with you to try and make sure that your rights are enforced. It doesn’t preclude you still going to the Australian Human Rights Commissioner if you’ve got an issue in terms of disability access or things like that, but it’s basically underpinned by that. At the moment, if you book a flight, it’s really complicated and it’s often not until you try and get on the phone, try and get your refund that you actually then find out, well, what you booked. You know, they’re saying you can’t have a refund, you can have a flight credit. It’s not something you can use. And so this is really spelling out what the expectations are on the airline and then backed up by the ombudsman.

    SALLY BOWREY: Yeah. And I think there is a great deal of room for improvement. Catherine, just before you go, can I just quickly ask obviously in a separate issue in New South Wales, we’ve got trains being delayed and cancelled. It’s causing a lot of stress for people trying to get around at Christmas and also businesses. Is this fair and how do you see this issue being resolved quickly?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, I can’t imagine a circumstance where the iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks on Sydney Harbour are coming under pressure. And I think, you know, I’d say really clearly to the union, you know, understand you’ve got a dispute with the New South Wales government, but you need to sort this out because you’re doing yourself quite a bit of damage. This is not a great time of year to be doing this. People are trying to get their last-minute Christmas shopping done. Understand you’ve got a dispute. You need to resolve it quickly, because those fireworks, I mean, you know, everyone watches them. The world.

    SALLY BOWREY: Unfortunately, it seems we have just lost the transport minister, Catherine King. They’re just talking about the train strike in New South Wales. Let’s move on now.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – Sunrise

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    SALLY BOWREY: Power will be given back to Australian travellers with a raft of new rights for cancelled and delayed flights. The initiative is designed to keep airlines honest and hold the industry accountable in some of the biggest travel reforms in a decade. 

    JAMES TOBIN: For more, we’re joined by Transport Minister, Catherine King. Good morning Catherine. Now, as someone who does quite a lot of travel, normally on the road with weather, catches a lot of flights, I am all ears on this one. What’s it going to mean for passengers?

    CATHERINE KING:  Well, what it will mean for passengers is that you get what you pay for, so either you’re able to enforce your rights to be able to get a refund or actually get the flight that you’ve actually asked for. And so, we’ve put out a draft charter of rights today. They’re out for consultation until the 28th of February. And really it is about enforcing the rights that you’ve booked a flight and that you should get what you actually pay for. So, there’s a range of rights in the draft charter that will ensure that airlines, and airports as well, actually lift their game when it comes to delivering the services that so many of us use to get around the country to work, to actually visit family, get to medical appointments, all of those things. So really, that’s what we’re doing today. It forms part of the ombudsman scheme that we’ve developed as part of the Aviation White Paper work we did this year. That scheme will be legislated next year, and the Charter of Rights really does spell out what you should be entitled to. It’s backed up by the Australian Consumer Law, what you’re entitled to if your flight doesn’t go ahead. So, if your flight is delayed by three hours or more at the fault of the airline, you should expect to be able to at no cost to yourself, get your flight rebooked either with that airline or another airline. If, because of time sensitivity, you can’t take another flight, they should be giving you a refund for that. Or if you’re stuck in not in your port where you live, you should be able to get accommodation and meals and again at no cost to yourself.

    SALLY BOWREY: And I think anyone, when you pay for something, you expect to actually get the product. And we do, have some pretty dismal stats in terms of, you know, flight delays, 30% of flights are delayed. So, I think the report is showing that it can take also up to almost 100 days for customers when they complain this is way too long. So, it is promising to push airlines to really reduce that. How will the new rules actually hold them to account to make sure that issues are resolved quickly?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, the first thing is that the Charter of Rights basically spells out very clearly what travelling public’s rights actually are. And so, we want to make sure that’s got out widely so people are aware of exactly what their rights are to enforce them in the first instance, to try and resolve the dispute with the airline, or if it’s a dispute with the airport, and then it’s backed up by an ombudsman scheme that is legislated. So, in the same way you’ve got a telecommunications ombudsman scheme, people, if they can’t get a remedy, then can go to the ombudsman and basically then have that referred up and they’ll do the work with you to try and make sure that your rights are enforced. It doesn’t preclude you still going to the Australian Human Rights Commissioner if you’ve got an issue in terms of disability access or things like that, but it’s basically underpinned by that. At the moment, if you book a flight, it’s really complicated and it’s often not until you try and get on the phone, try and get your refund that you actually then find out, well, what you booked. You know, they’re saying you can’t have a refund, you can have a flight credit. It’s not something you can use. And so this is really spelling out what the expectations are on the airline and then backed up by the ombudsman.

    SALLY BOWREY: Yeah. And I think there is a great deal of room for improvement. Catherine, just before you go, can I just quickly ask obviously in a separate issue in New South Wales, we’ve got trains being delayed and cancelled. It’s causing a lot of stress for people trying to get around at Christmas and also businesses. Is this fair and how do you see this issue being resolved quickly?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, I can’t imagine a circumstance where the iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks on Sydney Harbour are coming under pressure. And I think, you know, I’d say really clearly to the union, you know, understand you’ve got a dispute with the New South Wales government, but you need to sort this out because you’re doing yourself quite a bit of damage. This is not a great time of year to be doing this. People are trying to get their last-minute Christmas shopping done. Understand you’ve got a dispute. You need to resolve it quickly, because those fireworks, I mean, you know, everyone watches them. The world.

    SALLY BOWREY: Unfortunately, it seems we have just lost the transport minister, Catherine King. They’re just talking about the train strike in New South Wales. Let’s move on now.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police asking residents to check CCTV in relation to missing woman in Wellington

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are asking residents to check their CCTV in relation to a missing woman in Wellington.

    Upper Hutt residents who live in the Totara Park area who have CCTV cameras are asked to check for any sightings of missing woman Maia Johnston.

    The 19-year-old was last seen leaving a family home in Totara Park at around 8.30pm yesterday (Saturday 21 December).

    Police are keen for anyone with CCTV cameras to check for sightings of Maia between 8pm and 9pm on Saturday.

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105. Please use the reference number 241222/0237.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Copley

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are at the scene of a serious crash in Copley in the State’s far north.

    About 6.30am today (Sunday 22 December), police and emergency services were called to Harris Street after reports of a crash involving a car and pedestrian.

    Major Crash officers are attending the scene.

    Please avoid the area if possible.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrests made in Napier homicide case

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector David De Lange:

    Police have arrested and charged two men following the death of Napier man Boy Taylor.

    Police have been investigating Mr Taylor’s death after he died following an incident in Napier’s CBD on Wednesday 18 December.

    Two men, aged 21 and 33, have been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and are expected to appear in Hastings District Court on Monday 23 December 2024.

    Police cannot rule out the possibility of further arrests and charges. 

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dearborn, Michigan Man, Who Used Fake Refund Scheme to Defraud Retailers of More Than $4 Million, Sentenced to Three Years in Prison

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

    Lead defendant obtained more than $1.7 million in fraud proceeds on goods he falsely claimed he returned or never received

    Seattle – A 27-year-old Dearborn, Michigan, man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to three years in prison and three years of supervised release for a fraud scheme damaging retailers across the country, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Teal L. Miller. Sajed Al-Maarej operated “Simple Refunds” through the messaging service Telegram, where coconspirators were encouraged to purchase items from retailers Al-Maarej claimed he could defraud. Al-Maarej and his staff of “professional refunders” impersonated the purchaser and lied to the retailer about the status of the item to secure a refund for the purchaser, while permitting the purchaser to keep the ordered item. The scheme caused more than $4 million in losses for retailers and induced young adults nationwide to join a criminal scheme. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik noted that the fraud “was a difficult and expensive proposition” for the victim companies. “We need to send a message that this behavior is criminal,” Judge Lasnik said.

    “This defendant enticed many young and naïve online contacts to his illegal refunding scheme – some perhaps believed Al-Maarej’s spiel that this conduct was not illegal. They were badly misled,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Teal L. Miller. “This fraudulent refund scheme hurts retailers and ultimately raises prices for all of us. Al-Maarej got his expensive toys by convincing others to become complicit in his crimes.”

    According to records in the case, between September 2020 and December 2022, Al-Maarej represented to prospective purchasers that they could buy high value goods and keep them, while falsely claiming to the merchant company that a refund was due. Purchasers provided Al-Maarej information about their purchase (order number, name, address, value) and for a cut of the refund, Al-Maarej and his coconspirators would seek a refund by making false representations. For example, Simple Refunds would claim the item had not been delivered; was irretrievably damaged; or would have the purchaser mail a box of garbage or junk back to the company – once the package was scanned at the shipping point the refund was often issued before the box arrived back and the fraud was discovered. Al-Maarej recruited “insiders” at UPS and the US Postal Service who would input false scans into the order tracking history to make it appear items had been lost in shipping, stolen from the mail, or returned to the company.

    The end goal was for the purchaser to keep the product and get their money back. The purchaser then paid Al-Maarej 15-25% of the purchase price as his fee.

    Al-Maarej engaged in fraudulent refunding activity as well, on his own purchases. That conduct lasted until at least August 2023. In one instance, Al-Maarej obtained a refund for bulky tools, but he returned to the retailer an envelope filled with plastic toy frogs. One retailer identified more than $500,000 in items shipped to Al-Maarej’s home for which Al-Maarej obtained fraudulent refunds. In total, Al-Maarej made (and retailers lost) more than $1.4 million to his personal refunding activities. 

    The Simple Refunds channel on Telegram amassed a following of more than 1,000 subscribers. Al-Maarej used a second channel to post information on successful refunds. Al Maarej represented to some of those he recruited that the scheme was not illegal. He targeted young men in their teens and twenties and embroiled them in criminal conduct.

    The indictment details how two Snohomish County residents ordered thousands of dollars of merchandise and conspired with Al-Maarej to get the payments refunded. Al-Maarej or others at his direction, impersonated the buyers, claimed the items had been “delivered not received” and got the purchase price refunded. The customers kept the items.

    In May 2022, Al-Maarej deepened his fraud by offering a “mentorship” program where he would teach others to create their own refunding scams – he charged $6,000 for admission to the program. He boasted that students would “learn from the best in the game, from everything fraud related, to legit businesses and cleaning your money.”

    Last summer, Al-Maarej pleaded guilty to wire fraud and mail fraud. As part of his sentence Al-Maarej was ordered to pay $4,353,819.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS). Amazon, Costco, and Microsoft assisted in the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Watts Staniar.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: Memorial service held for car-ramming victims at German Christmas market

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Policemen stand guard at a Christmas market where a car rammed into a crowd in Magdeburg, Germany, Dec. 21, 2024. At least five people were killed and over 200 others injured after a car rammed into a large crowd at a German Christmas market in the central German city of Magdeburg Friday evening, German news agency dpa reported Saturday, citing State Premier Reiner Haseloff. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu)

    Approximately 200 people sustained injuries, many of them serious. Authorities warned that the death toll could rise.

    A memorial service was held Saturday evening in the German city of Magdeburg to mourn the victims of a tragic attack at a Christmas market on Friday night, where a car rammed into a crowd, killing at least five people and injuring 200 others.

    The service took place at the city’s cathedral and was intended primarily for the victims’ relatives, emergency responders, and invited guests, including Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Outside the cathedral, mourners gathered to lay flowers and light candles in remembrance of the victims.

    To mark the tragedy, church bells tolled across Magdeburg at 7:04 p.m. (1804 GMT) — the exact time the attack occurred.

    This photo taken on Dec. 21, 2024 shows a Christmas market where a car rammed into a crowd in Magdeburg, Germany. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu)

    VICTIMS INCLUDE 9-YEAR-OLD CHILD

    A nine-year-old child is among the five people killed, confirmed Horst Walter Nopens, head of the local public prosecutor’s office, without disclosing further details about the other four adult victims.

    He said approximately 200 people sustained injuries, many of them serious. Authorities warned that the death toll could rise.

    According to German media, the attack lasted roughly three minutes. The emergency route used by the perpetrator was not secured with barriers, raising concerns about safety measures.

    Condemning the act, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the incident as “a terrible tragedy to harm and kill so many people with such brutality.”

    German Chancellor Olaf Scholz speaks to the press during a memorial ceremony in Magdeburg, Germany, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu)

    DOCTOR FROM SAUDI ARABIA UNDER INVESTIGATION

    A 50-year-old doctor originated from Saudi Arabia was arrested at the site and taken into custody for questioning. Police searched his home overnight, and authorities assume he acted alone. He has lived in Germany since 2006 and worked in a nearby town.

    Authorities noted earlier that the suspect was not previously known to law enforcement as an Islamist.

    His motive remained unclear and police have not yet named the suspect. Nopens said one possible factor could be the suspect’s frustration with Germany’s handling of Saudi refugees.

    According to the German news agency dpa, authorities had been alerted about the man approximately a year ago.

    Scholz and other top officials, including Federal Minister of the Interior Nancy Faeser, arrived in Magdeburg on Saturday. Faeser ordered Saturday morning that all flags at all federal buildings be flown at half-mast nationwide.

    This photo shows police vehicles near a Christmas market where a car rammed into a crowd in Magdeburg, Germany, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu)

    Magdeburg, a city of approximately 237,000 residents, is located in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, about 150 km west of Berlin.

    The incident echoes a tragic attack on Dec. 19, 2016, when a terrorist drove a truck into a Berlin Christmas market, killing 12 and injuring over 70 others. The perpetrator fled to Italy, where he was eventually shot dead by police.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Death toll rises to 38 in major road crash in Brazil

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The death toll from a road accident in the southeastern Brazilian state of Minas Gerais has risen to 38, with 13 others injured, local authorities reported Saturday.

    The accident, involving a bus, a truck, and a car, occurred in the early morning hours in the municipality of Teofilo Otoni. It was triggered when a large block of granite fell from the truck’s cargo onto the road, causing the bus to collide with the truck traveling in the opposite direction. A car following the bus then slammed into it from behind, according to the Federal Highway Police.

    The majority of fatalities were caused by a fire that engulfed the bus after the collision, said the police.

    According to Teofilo Otoni officials, 13 people sustained injuries, including the three occupants of the car, all of whom are in critical condition.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Hamilton Police investigating after man critically injured in assault

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Hamilton Police are investigating after a man was critically injured in an assault early this morning.

    The man was assaulted outside his home on Sefton Crescent at around 4.25am today.

    He is currently in a critical but stable condition in hospital.

    Police would like to hear from anyone who has CCTV in the Sefton Crescent area, or anyone who may have heard or seen anything relevant to our investigation.

    If you can help, please contact Police via 105 and quote file number 241222/9970.

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Pewsey Vale

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are at the scene of a serious crash at Pewsey Vale.

    About 12.30pm today (Sunday 22 December), police and emergency services were called to Springton Road after reports that a car had crashed down an embankment.

    Major Crash officers are attending the scene.

    Please avoid the area if possible.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – Press conference, Ballarat

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    CATHERINE KING: Today the Albanese Labor government is releasing our draft consumer rights charter for airline travellers. This is part of the work we have done this year as part of the Aviation White Paper and the establishment for the first time ever of an aviation industry ombudsman. We know the travelling public has not been happy with the services that they are getting both from our airlines and from our airports, and we want to improve the circumstances. Customers should get what they pay for or they should get a refund. This Charter of Rights, which is out for consultation now, spells out very clearly what people, the flying public, can expect. If they have flight cancellations, they should expect, at no cost of their own, to either be rebooked on that airline or another airline, or they should get a refund and that refund should be a timely refund within 14 days. We also know that people should – if they are stuck away from their home, away from the where they actually live – that they should also get access to accommodation and food to be able to stay overnight then go onto their travels. This is the first time we’ve had a consumer rights for the air travelling public and it’s part of the reforms that we have of trying to make sure customers actually get what they pay for or get a refund. 

    JOURNALIST: If this charter is ultimately improved, is there a plan to impose penalties on airlines if they don’t comply with it and how will you ensure that they do comply? 

    CATHERINE KING: We will be legislating next year the aviation industry ombudsman scheme. We’ve got an interim person in at the moment who’s been developing this Consumer Rights Charter and all of those issues in relation to penalties, in relation to the way in which people can get remedies, will all be detailed as part of that legislation. This is the first part of putting that together, drafting the consumer rights charter to make sure we get that right. 

    JOURNALIST: And what powers can you say at this stage? What powers will the interim ombudsman have? 

    CATHERINE KING: Well, similar to the communications industry ombudsman, where they will be able to seek remedies directly from airlines, being able to name and shame in terms of the amount of complaints that they are getting, and to seek remedies. But again, all of that will be in the draft legislation. 

    JOURNALIST: And I understand that this aviation code is now out for public comment until the end of January?

    CATHERINE KING: Until the end of February, so 28th of February, people can access it on my department’s website, infrastructure.gov.au and look for the Aviation Charter of Rights, [indistinct] and you can just send an email to the email but basically says we think it should be this way, or we think it should have a shorter time frame, all of those things. It can just be a line in an email to give us some feedback about it. 

    JOURNALIST: And so after feedback closes, how long could it realistically take for this charter to be approved and become legislation? 

    CATHERINE KING: Well, not long. We’re obviously subject to parliament sitting, and they’re sitting in February, and then obviously getting it past, but we hope to do so as quickly as possible. 

    JOURNALIST: The feedback closes at the end of February, after Parliament sits, so at this stage, is it likely there’ll be another sitting after that before the next election? 

    CATHERINE KING: What we will be doing is that obviously the legislation will reference the charter and then the actual wording of the charter can be finalised later. 

    JOURNALIST: So you hope to pass this legislation in the February week of parliament, is that correct? 

    CATHERINE KING: Well we are certainly hoping to introduce the legislation as soon as possible, but again, we announced this back in November that we were establishing an aviation industry ombudsman scheme. The drafting of that legislation is underway, but it is part of our commitment to improving the experience of the travelling public.

    JOURNALIST: Obviously, the changes won’t be in effect this Christmas, this travel season, when do you want the changes to kick in, and if companies do not comply with the changes will there be penalties and what will they be?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, people already have rights under Australian Consumer Law. The problem we have is, when you’re booking a flight ticket, very few of us look at the terms and conditions of the contract you’re entering into. But people do already have existing rights really under Australian Consumer Law, part of the problem has been, A). not knowing what those rights are, but also having real difficulty enforcing those rights – trying to get hold of someone in the first place, and waiting for hours on the phone to a call centre, or then in some cases, having almost 100 days in some cases before any remedy is put in place. So, building in a Charter that basically says, this is what your rights are, this is making it very clear what our expectation of the airlines and the airports are, provides that opportunity for remedies. 

    JOURNALIST: And when do you want that to kick in, and will there be penalties? 

    CATHERINE KING: It certainly when the legislation passes through the parliament, obviously the timing of that will be a part of the legislation but as I said, people do have rights and they should be upheld, but really what this charter is doing – and what we’re consulting on – is trying to codify those rights and ensure that they are part of the legislation and the ombudsman scheme going forward. But we hope for that to be in place certainly for next year. 

    JOURNALIST: And the penalties for non-compliant?

    CATHERINE KING: Again, that would be part of legislation that we’re drafting at the moment. 

    JOURNALIST: You mentioned that this is the first time that airlines have been held to account or have such harsh laws in place. Why has it taken so long and I understand the Coalition’s private members bill has been up since March on Pay on Delay, why not support that? And do you think you will have the Coalition’s support in Parliament next year? 

    CATHERINE KING: Well, who knows what the Coalition is going to do, frankly, you know, you never know they seem to have decided to say no to absolutely everything just to cause political havoc, even when it is in the travelling public’s actual interest to do so. We know that the previous government, they were in power for a decade, they couldn’t have cared less about the aviation industry, couldn’t have cared less about aviation consumers, did nothing for a decade. What we’ve seen in the two and a half years of the Albanese Labor Government is the most significant reforms that they aviation sector and the travelling public have ever seen. That’s what we’ve done in the two and a half years that we’ve been in Government. The opposition can be accountable for their lack of action in the last decade. 

    JOURNALIST: [indistinct] is it enough to deter the practice? 

    CATHERINE KING: What we’re seeing in terms of the travelling public is where consumers are more informed about what their rights are, where they have information about what to expect and what their rights are, we know that they can be enforced in a much stronger way. Having an ombudsman for the first time, we’ve had a sort of voluntary system at the moment that’s really not been working for the travelling public. Having an ombudsman who then, you know, if you can’t get anywhere with the airline and yourself, then actually going to the ombudsman and having that capacity to get a remedy through that process really will be a significant change from the Australian travelling public. 

    JOURNALIST: Airlines make it hard enough to get a voucher or switch flight, how hard do you think they’re going to make it for passengers to get a refund? 

    CATHERINE KING: Well, certainly this is what we’re trying to rectify, we’re trying to make sure that the traveling public either gets what they pay for or they get a refund. If someone wants to have a credit voucher then that it is an option that they have available but it has to be at, the travelling public, if that’s what you want and you want the voucher, then that’s what you get, but that can’t be the default. So that’s what this Charter of Rights lays out really clearly that if you need a refund and you want and refund, then that is what you should actually get, you shouldn’t get a flight credit that you may or may not be able to use later on, unless you want one. 

    JOURNALIST: Minster, on Sunrise this morning, this flight delays of three hours or more, what about for delays like say a Volcano in Bali or you know, this considered out of the airlines control will you expect refunds for cancellations or at least a some sort of hotel room or meal provided oin those circumstances?  

    CATHERINE KING: So, certainly refunds for cancellations is part of the charter of rights and that’s important. If a flight gets cancelled, those refunds are important. If you don’t get what you pay for, then you should get a refund, and that is very much part of the charter. In terms of the delay, really, uh, you know, there are delays that, of course, that are no fault of the airlines themselves. Really what this is about is where the airline is at fault, you know, had crewing issues or maintenance issues, or they’ve really not delivered what they should be delivering. Then, really, the next thing is to say can you rebook? how else can we travel? And if you can’t do any of those things, being able to get a refund for your flight or getting your meals and your accommodation paid if you’re not at your home port. 

    JOURNALIST: Arguable you’ve got bigger airlines, Virgin and Qantas, [indistinct]… do you think that legislation like this might create a barrier for new airlines entering the market? 

    CATHERINE KING: No, I think that any new airline entering the market really should take into account what they are supposed to do under Australian Consumer Law. People do have substantial rights under Australian Consumer Law. What this draft charter is doing is codifying that, is putting that down in writing, so that people have a much better understanding of it. And of course, any new entrant it has to comply with that law. 

    JOURNALIST: So far have you had any feedback from the airlines? 

    CATHERINE KING: Well, we are just releasing it today. I’m sure they’ll have plenty to say. I’m sure the airports will have plenty to say, but at the end of the day, this is about the travelling public and improving the experience for everybody. 

    JOURNALIST: How much can you estimate this will cost the airlines annually?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, we don’t know, hopefully it costs them nothing because they actually deliver the service that people pay for and that’s what really this is about improving the experience of the travelling public, and if nothing goes wrong, then it’s not you know, their fault, then they won’t have to pay for it. And so that’s what this is really about –  improving the experience of the travelling public. And again, as I said, you know, we’ve had this is the single biggest reform, we’ve had to the aviation sector. Our demand management system at Sydney Airport, the slots reforms there, and this ombudsman scheme, really is a significant reform and it should improve the services that people are experiencing going forward. 

    JOURNALIST: And what lost luggage? 

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah, well, certainly in terms of luggage that is one of the rights that is part of the charter, and I encourage people to have a look at it and again, [indistinct]. So sometimes you have delayed luggage, your luggage, they can’t find where it is, so you might have some costs that are incurred having to buy some toiletries so that you can actually get through the next day or so. So, getting a refund or getting money back for those, but also making sure that you are fairly refunded or compensated for the luggage if it’s lost for good and that is very much part of the consumer rights charter that we’re putting forward at the moment and again encourage people to have a look at that and give us feedback as to whether that goes far enough. 

    JOURNALIST: Apologies, I haven’t read the paper… 

    CATHERINE KING: [laughs] I certainly have read it, yes, I’ve read it extensively. 

    JOURNALIST: Will there be any scope in here for how loyalty programs are managed? 

    CATHERINE KING: It doesn’t cover so much loyalty programs. Again, there are significant rights that people have under consumer law in relation to those. That certainly has been an area of some contention as well. Uh, but again, this is a draft, it’s out for consultation and we’re happy to have a look at whether there is broader things that needs to be picked up in the charter, or there needs to be something else that the ombudsperson looks at more broadly as part of those flight incentives as well. 

    JOURNALIST: I’ve just got a few more questions about two unrelated matters, first of all, have you heard the latest about the ADF flights out of Vanuatu? 

    CATHERINE KING: Yes, so certainly we’ve already repatriated 568 people out of Vanuatu. There are two more flights today, more RAF flights out of Port Vila today, and commercial flights are restarting as well. So options for people to get home continue. Obviously, it continues to be a difficult circumstance on the ground there, but really that’s what we’ve done, so there are two more flights out of Port Vila today and commercial flights are commencing as well. We’ve already repatriated 568 people. We’ve also announced a further $5 million of humanitarian assistance on top of the two million that’s already been there, but, you know, we’re in there for the long haul. This is a really important, one of our important Pacific neighbours and we want to make sure that we do everything we can to help them recover. 

    JOURNALIST: And looking a bit closer to home, obviously, there’s a bushfire emergency into Grampians at the moment. Can you say at this stage what Federal support is available to people who are evacuating or who might be spending weeks away from home?

    CATHERINE KING: At the moment we’re really in the emergency phase. There’s an emergency warning, obviously for Grampians fire and a watch and act in Pomonal. These are communities that we’re hit very hard in February Pomonal, in particular. We’ll let the emergency services agencies do their work at the moment, in fighting the fires. This is going to be something that is quite difficult, but Minister McAllister will have a bit more to say when we are working with the Victorian state government about what emergency services and relief will be put in place fairly quickly for people. But right at the moment it’s really the emergency situation just trying to make sure we keep people safe. I do want to give a shout out to our emergency services personnel, from our firefighters in the air to those that are on the ground, really doing an amazing job, to our relief services, there’s relief centres at Stawell, at Ararat and I believe one opening up at Kyneton shortly. Just doing an amazing job and I want to thank them and say, please stay safe everyone. Take head of the emergency warnings. It is absolutely critical that you do so. Leave if leaving is your best option and leave if they tell you to leave. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Search continues for Maia Johnston

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are still actively searching for 19-year-old Maia Johnston, who is missing from Totara Park, Upper Hutt.

    Maia was last seen leaving a family home in Totara Park at around 8.30pm yesterday (Saturday 21 December).

    Previously, Police asked for residents in the Totara Park, Upper Hutt area to share any CCTV footage they might have.

    We are now expanding this request and are asking for anyone in the vicinity of Harcourt Park and Brown Owl, as well as those in Totara Park, to review their CCTV for any sightings of Maia after 8:15 PM last night.

    We believe that Maia was wearing a black cardigan or light top, short shorts, and black and white converse shoes.

    Police continue to search this evening. 

    Residents of Totara Park may see a drone in the air behind the houses on the northern end of Totara Park and should not be alarmed, as this is part of the search.

    If you have any information or CCTV footage that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105. Please use the reference number 241222/0237.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China mulls law revision to foster fair market environment

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Chinese lawmakers are considering a draft revision to the Anti-Unfair Competition Law, which is expected to foster a fair market environment for business entities.
    The draft revision was submitted on Saturday to the ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, the national legislature, for deliberation.
    This is the third major revision of the law since its promulgation in 1993.
    The draft revision focuses on clarifying the general requirements for anti-unfair competition, refining regulations to address unfair practices, and strengthening enforcement and penalty measures, thus fostering a favorable institutional environment that enables fair competition for various market players.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s top legislature convenes standing committee session

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, presides over the first plenary meeting of the 13th session of the 14th NPC Standing Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Tao)
    China’s top legislature on Saturday started a regular session to review a raft of bills including law drafts and reports.
    Zhao Leji, chairman of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, presided over the first plenary meeting of the committee’s 13th session.
    Lawmakers reviewed a draft value-added tax law, a draft national park law, a draft law on the publicity and education regarding the rule of law, a draft private sector promotion law, and a draft hazardous chemicals safety law.
    They deliberated a draft amendment to the law on people’s congress deputies, a draft amendment to the supervision law, a draft revision to science and technology popularization law, a draft revision to the anti-unfair competition law, and a draft revision to the fisheries law.
    Lawmakers also reviewed a draft decision on convening the third session of the 14th NPC, reports on the handling of the suggestions, criticisms and comments submitted by lawmakers at the second session of the 14th NPC, a deputy qualification report, and personnel-related bills, among others. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing symposium discusses legal protection for autistic individuals

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Signage at an autism legislation symposium in Beijing, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo by Xu Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]
    A symposium focused on advancing the enactment and implementation of autism-related laws and regulations was held in Beijing on Friday. The China Legal Exchange Foundation (CLEF) and Beijing Highking Law Firm hosted the event, gathering experts from the legislative, judicial, education and social service sectors to discuss building a more inclusive society for people with autism.
    Zhang Mingqi, vice president and secretary-general of the China Law Society, highlighted the urgency of this initiative. He referenced the decision from the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China to improve the social security and service systems for people with disabilities.
    “China has over 13 million individuals with autism,” Zhang said. “The challenges they face are multifaceted, spanning access to education, health care and employment, as well as long-term structural issues like social integration and support. This makes the creation of autism-specific laws and regulations both critical and urgent.”
    He advocated for an inclusive judicial system with protective measures for individuals with autism in legal proceedings, calling for increased policy support across multiple sectors.
    CLEF Chairwoman Zhang Suofei emphasized the symposium’s role in facilitating professional exchange. She expressed hope that it would advance autism-related legislation and create a friendlier, more inclusive social environment where individuals with autism can live with equality and dignity.
    Zhang Qinghua, director of Beijing Highking Law Firm, discussed the firm’s two decades of public welfare work and its commitment to supporting the autism community through legal advocacy and public interest initiatives.

    Participants attend an autism legislation symposium in Beijing, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo by Xu Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]
    Zhang Junru, founder of the Golden Wings Rehabilitation Center, shared the organization’s achievements in empowering autistic youth through art and physical rehabilitation over 14 years. Since its founding in 2010, Golden Wings has developed a unique teaching system that combines art and sports to build confidence and a sense of accomplishment among its participants.
    The center provides instruction in painting, music, calligraphy, fitness, basketball and climbing. Participants’ artwork has been converted into postcards, calendars, stickers and silk scarves, generating 1.34 million yuan ($183,649.68) in supplemental income for families.
    Golden Wings has helped 1,425 young people with autism develop their artistic abilities, with 523 winning awards at home and abroad. The center has mounted exhibitions in the Netherlands, France, Germany, Japan and seven Chinese cities, displaying 11,888 paintings to over 100,000 visitors.
    Experts from Peking University, Beijing Normal University and the Beijing Financial and Tax Law Society joined an Australian autism behavior therapist to offer recommendations for protecting the rights of people with autism.
    The symposium marked the official launch of the Starlight Rights and Interests Fund under the CLEF. The fund, initiated by Beijing Highking Law Firm, will support autism research, public welfare activities and legislative efforts while raising public awareness.

    Golden Wings students’ artwork is displayed at a charity auction during an autism legislation symposium in Beijing, Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo by Xu Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]
    The event concluded with a charity auction of paintings by Golden Wings students. Proceeds will support the center’s rehabilitation programs.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Vanuatu quake: Warnings as bad weather threat looms for Port Vila

    By Koroi Hawkins, RNZ Pacific editor

    New Zealand’s Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) says impending bad weather for Port Vila is now the most significant post-quake hazard.

    A tropical low in the Coral Sea is expected to move into Vanuatu waters, bringing heavy rainfall.

    Authorities have issued warnings to people living near landslide-prone areas around the Vanuatu capital.

    People living near low lying areas or rivers have also been told to move, should water levels rise.

    The heavy rain may also cause flash flooding.

    USAR team leader Ken Cooper said last Tuesday’s 7.3 earthquake caused significant landslides.

    “With the weather system that’s coming in, there is a high likelihood that the landslides continue and we need to ensure that there’s no life risks if those landslides should move further,” Cooper said.

    Death toll now 12
    Aftershocks have continued, and early this morning, the US Geological Survey recorded a magnitude 6.1 quake, at a depth of 40km west of Port Vila.

    New Zealand and Vanuatu engineers were assessing prioritised areas in the capital, and a decision would then be made as to whether a community needed to be evacuated, Cooper said.

    Since the team had been in Vanuatu, it had taken damage assessments of buildings and infrastructure, with the Vanuatu government, allowing them to prioritise the biggest risks and to assist the community in recovering more quickly, he said.

    The official death toll from Vanuatu’s 7.3 magnitude quake is now 12 according to the Vanuatu Disaster Management office.

    This has been confirmed by the Vila Central Hospital.

    The deployment lead for New Zealand in Vanuatu praised the resilience of the ni-Vanuatu people following the 7.3 earthquake. Image: MFAT/RNZ Pacific

    Earlier unofficial reports had placed the death toll at 16.

    The team had completed almost 1000 assessments, alongside the Australia USAR team, which was a significant task, Cooper said.

    Both teams shared common tools and practices, which had allowed them to work simultaneously and helped the teams to quickly carry out the assessments, he said.

    “When we undertake the assessments that really gives us a clear picture of what should be prioritised and we work with the [Vanuatu] government and their infrastructure cluster, and some of the priorities we have looked at are bridges, [the] airport, the port, and also landslides,” he said.

    Resilience shown by locals
     The deployment lead for New Zealand in Vanuatu praised the resilience of the Ni-Vanuatu people following the 7.3 earthquake.

    Thousands of people had been affected by the disaster but the response effort was being hampered by damage to core infrastructure including the country’s telecommunications network.

    Emma Dunlop-Bennett said the New Zealand teams on the ground were working in partnership with the Vanuatu government.

    She said she was in awe of the strength of locals after the disaster.

    “As we go out into communities, working . . .  with the government, people are out there, getting up and doing what they can to get themselves into business as usual, life as usual. I am really in awe and humbled.

    The purpose of the New Zealand team being in Vanuatu was three-fold: To provide urgent and critical humanitarian assistance, a response for consular need to New Zealanders, and to support a smooth transition from relief, response to recovery, Dunlop-Bennett said.

    Then to business as usual, working along side the priority need identified by the Vanuatu government, she added.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — Ongoing police incident occurring in the Porter Creek subdivision area

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Please be advised there is an ongoing incident occurring in the Porter Creek subdivision area. Police are asking that Tamarack Street residents to stay inside and shelter in place. Do not travel in the area of Hickory and Tamarack Streets. Updates will be provided as available.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sharing Holiday Cheer: USAG Okinawa Connects with Local Community

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    OKINAWA, Japan  –  

    U.S. Army Garrison Okinawa volunteers brought the holiday spirit to Yomitan Village, Okinawa, Japan, on Dec. 19, 2024, with a special visit to a local daycare center.

    The day’s festivities began with Santa’s grand arrival in a fire truck, courtesy of USAG Okinawa’s Fire and Emergency Services. Children from the Takenoko and Pono-Pono daycare centers greeted Santa, posed for photos with him and the fire truck, and enjoyed sweet treats shared by his helpers.

    More than 100 children and teachers participated in the event, which was filled with laughter, questions for Santa, and plenty of holiday cheer.

    “In Japan, Christmas is seen as a joyful celebration and an opportunity to spend time with family and friends,” said Yumiko Uchima, USAG Okinawa Community Relations Specialist. “It’s heartwarming to see the children’s excitement and happiness during this special occasion.”

    The event underscored the value of community and shared traditions. It allowed the Army to share the spirit of Christmas while learning about how their host nation embraces the holiday season.

    “These events mean a lot because we get to share our traditions and learn about the local community’s celebrations,” said USAG Okinawa Command Sgt. Maj. TaJuana Nixon. “It’s about the joy of bringing our two communities together.”

    Through shared smiles, laughter, and the joy of giving, the day served as a reminder of the season’s true meaning: unity, joy, and community.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Murder charge laid in relation to Gisborne homicide

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Detective Inspector David de Lange of Eastern District Police:

    A woman has been arrested in relation to the murder of Wayne Dewes in Gisborne in October.

    Police were called about 4.20am on 28 October after Mr Dewes was rushed to hospital with severe injuries, dying a short time later.

    A homicide investigation was launched and now a 27-year-old woman has been charged with murder.

    She is due to appear in Gisborne District Court today, Monday 23 December.

    We are pleased to have made an arrest in this case, and hope it brings some sense of reassurance to whānau and the wider community.

    Police would like to extend our thanks to those members of the public who have come forward with information.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lower Post, B.C. — Watson Lake RCMP and BC Coroners Service investigating a death

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Watson Lake RCMP is investigating the death of a man in Lower Post, British Columbia.

    On October 28, 2024, at approximately 10:30 am Watson lake RCMP were notified that a body had been located on the bank of the Liard River in Lower Post. Initial investigation suggests the man may have been there for some time.

    RCMP are working with the BC Coroners Service to determine the identity of the deceased.

    Police ask that if anyone has information in the community, to please contact Watson Lake RCMP Detachment at 867-536-5555.

    Any media questions regarding the investigation can be directed to the BC Coroners Service.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have you seen Jazz?

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are appealing for any sightings of 13-year-old Jazz after being reported missing in Paraparaumu this morning.

    Jazz was last seen at his home address at around 2am, and is believed to be wearing a black hoodie, dark green jacket and may have a green backpack.

    It is believed that Jazz may have travelled to the Upper Hutt area.

    Police and Jazz’s family are concerned for his welfare and would like to see him return home.

    If you have seen Stanley or may have information that can assist Police in locating him, please contact us on 105.

    Please use the reference number P061041676.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USINDOPACOM Commander Travels to Republic of Korea, Attends USFK Change of Command

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    USAG HUMPHREYS, Republic of Korea  –   Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, travels to the Republic of Korea during a trip to the USINDOPACOM area of responsibility, Dec. 20.

    Paparo met with ROK Acting Minister of National Defense Kim, Seon ho to discuss commitments to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and the ironclad U.S.-ROK Alliance. They ensured one another the U.S.-ROK combined defense posture remains strong and ready to respond to any external provocations or threats.

    During the visit, he also officiated the United States Forces Korea change of command ceremony, where Army Gen. Xavier T. Brunson relieved Army Gen. Paul LaCamera, who retired upon the completion of the ceremony with 40 years of honorable service to the United States.

    USINDOPACOM is committed to enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region by promoting security cooperation, encouraging peaceful development, responding to contingencies, deterring aggression and, when necessary, fighting to win.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Drive safely this summer

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is urging Kiwis to drive safely this summer and reminding motorists that Police will be out in force to enforce the road rules, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.

    “This time of year can be stressful and result in poor decision-making on our roads. Whether you are travelling to see loved ones, embarking on a road trip with friends, or exploring all that New Zealand has to offer, please take care and drive responsibly,” Mr Brown says.

    “You can expect to see Police anywhere, anytime, on the road. They will be out to deter any dangerous behaviour that impacts the safety of road users including speeding and driver impairment, and ensuring road users are wearing their seatbelts. 

    “Drive to the conditions. Don’t put yourselves and others at risk. If you’re having a drink this holiday season, don’t drive.

    “Drunk and drugged drivers are the highest contributors to deaths on our roads, and the Government is focussed on increased enforcement and providing new tools to police to reduce alcohol and drug related deaths on our roads.”

    Over 850,000 more alcohol breath tests were undertaken on our roads in 2023/24 compared to the previous year with a new increased target set of 3.3 million alcohol breath tests and screenings per year. 

    “We know alcohol breath testing and drug testing are incredibly effective at saving lives. That is why we are prioritising road policing and enforcement to improve road safety,” Mr Brown says.

    The Government is also progressing legislation to enable roadside oral fluid drug testing to be rolled out in 2025. The oral fluid testing will give the Police the power to screen drivers for drugs at the roadside using oral fluid testing devices, similar to drink-driving enforcement.

    “Plan ahead. Check the weather conditions, determine where you’re going to have breaks, and ensure you’re not under the influence when you get behind the wheel,” Mr Brown says.

    The official 2024 Christmas New Year holiday period begins 4pm on Tuesday 24 December 2024 and ends 6am on Friday 3 January 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Update Missing Person Located – Lake Burbury, Queenstown

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Update Missing Person Located – Lake Burbury, Queenstown

    Saturday, 21 December 2024 – 11:05 am.

    Police search efforts continued on Lake Burbury overnight with helicopters commencing an aerial search at day light.
    Police are pleased to advise that 75 year old Gormanstan man was located shortly after 9.30 am this morning with no significant injuries.
    We would like to thank the public for their assistance.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Dangerous Driving Incident- Youngtown/Launceston

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Dangerous Driving Incident- Youngtown/Launceston

    Saturday, 21 December 2024 – 4:26 pm.

    A 32-year old female from Longford has been arrested and detained for court following a dangerous driving incident in Launceston today.
    At approximately 1.40pm, police received numerous calls from the public in relation to a female driving dangerously in a white Hyundai i30 (registration FS8735). The woman drove in a dangerous manner through Youngtown, Kings Meadows, and Prospect and crashed into another vehicle before being intercepted by police. The woman is currently disqualified from driving.
    The woman was subjected to alcohol and drug testing and detained for court. The woman is facing numerous driving, drug, and property charges.
    The woman’s vehicle has been seized for an indefinite period.
    Anyone with information about a white Hyundai i30 (FS8735) being driven in the Launceston area on the 21/12/2024 is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously. Reference ESCAD 000219-21122024.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal single vehicle crash, Tasman Highway Tonganah

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Fatal single vehicle crash, Tasman Highway Tonganah

    Sunday, 22 December 2024 – 6:49 am.

    Sadly a 66-year-old woman has died following a crash on the Tasman Highway at Tonganah this afternoon.
    Police and emergency services were called to the scene about 3:20 pm on Saturday the 21st of December.
    Initial inquires indicate a silver Honda Accord was travelling east on the Tasman Highway at Tonganah when the vehicle has left the road coming to rest in a ditch. The female passenger was pronounced deceased at the scene whilst the male driver and only other occupant of the vehicle aged in his sixties was conveyed the Launceston General Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
    Anyone with information or relevant dash cam footage is asked to contact Northern Crash Investigation Services on 131 444. Our thoughts are with the female’s family and loved ones. A report will be prepared for the coroner.

    MIL OSI News –