NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S., Japan, Republic of Korea Conduct Trilateral Aerial Exercise

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    Fighter aircraft from the U.S., Japan, and the Republic of Korea conducted a trilateral escort flight of a U.S. bomber operating in the Indo-Pacific, Nov. 3, 2024.

    Two U.S. F-16 from the 36th Fighter Squadron, 51st Fighter Wing flew with four Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-2s from the 8th Air Wing and four Republic of Korea Air Force F-15Ks from the 11th Fighter Wing to escort one U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer. 

    This exercise continues strong trilateral cooperation, enabling immediate response to regional security challenges in a critical security environment.

    Our three nations maintain an absolute commitment to the shared vision of a secure, rules-based, and open Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Louisville, Kentucky, Metro Police Officer Found Guilty of Federal Civil Rights Crimes Related to the Breonna Taylor Case

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A federal jury in Louisville, Kentucky, today convicted a former Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) officer for violating the civil rights of Breonna Taylor during the execution of a search warrant in March 2020 that led to the tragic death of Taylor in her home.

    Brett Hankison, 46, was convicted on one count of civil rights abuse. Count one charged him with depriving Taylor of her constitutional rights when he fired five shots through a bedroom window that was covered with blinds and a blackout curtain. The jury found that Hankison used a dangerous weapon in the commission of the offense, and that his conduct involved an attempt to kill, although his shots did not strike Taylor. Hankison was found not guilty on count two, which charged him with depriving three of Taylor’s neighbors of their constitutional rights by firing five more shots through a sliding glass door that was also covered with blinds and a curtain.

    “Today, Brett Hankison was found guilty by a jury of his peers for willfully depriving Breonna Taylor of her constitutional rights,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “His use of deadly force was unlawful and put Ms. Taylor in harm’s way. This verdict is an important step toward accountability for the violation of Breonna Taylor’s civil rights, but justice for the loss of Ms. Taylor is a task that exceeds human capacity.”

    “This defendant is being held accountable for his willful and heinous use of deadly force that endangered the life of Breonna Taylor,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Breonna Taylor’s life mattered. We hope the jury’s verdict recognizing this violation of Ms. Taylor’s civil and constitutional rights brings some small measure of comfort to her family and loved ones who have suffered so deeply from the tragic events of March 2020. We hope that communities use this moment to say her name and to engrave on their hearts and minds Breonna Taylor’s life and enduring legacy. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously defend the civil rights of every person in this country to be free from unlawful police violence.”

    According to evidence at trial, during the execution of the warrant at Taylor’s home, officers knocked on Taylor’s door and announced themselves as police at approximately 12:45 a.m. No one answered the door, and the officers saw no indication that anyone in the home was awake or had heard their announcement. The police then rammed the door open and Taylor’s boyfriend, believing that intruders were breaking in, fired his handgun one time at officers, two of whom fired back, hitting and killing Taylor.

    Hankison was not one of the officers who fired from the doorway. He fired separately, from the side of the building, through a sliding glass door and a bedroom window, both of which were covered with closed blinds and curtains. Evidence showed that several of Hankison’s shots passed through Taylor’s apartment, pierced the interior walls and narrowly missed a young couple with a five-year-old child living next door to Taylor. Other shots flew over Taylor’s head as she lay on the floor of her apartment.

    At trial, numerous law enforcement witnesses testified that officers are trained never to fire their weapons at a target they cannot see. Officers who were on the scene for the execution of the warrant, and others who responded later, testified that Hankison violated LMPD training and the principles of law enforcement when he fired blindly into a crowded apartment complex. The Commander of LMPD’s SWAT unit, who responded to the scene shortly after the shooting, testified that he was in “shock and disbelief” when he learned that Hankison had fired into the covered windows in Ms. Taylor’s home. The jury also heard from her neighbors, who were nearly hit by Hankison’s bullets.

    Hankison will be sentenced on March 12, 2025. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Two other LMPD officers remain charged in connection with the search warrant executed at Taylor’s home. Former Detective Joshua Jaynes, 40, and LMPD Sergeant Kyle Meany, 35, are charged with federal civil rights and obstruction offenses for their roles in preparing and approving a falsified search warrant affidavit that resulted in the warrant that led to Taylor’s death. A trial will be set for a later date, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    Another former LMPD officer, Detective Kelly Goodlett, previously pleaded guilty to conspiring with Jaynes to falsify the affidavit used to obtain a search warrant for Taylor’s home and to cover up their actions after Taylor’s death. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 29, 2025.

    The FBI Louisville Field Office investigated the case.

    Special Litigation Counsel Michael J. Songer and Trial Attorney Anna Gotfryd of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Louisville, Kentucky, Metro Police Officer Found Guilty of Federal Civil Rights Crimes Related to the Breonna Taylor Case

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A federal jury in Louisville, Kentucky, today convicted a former Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) officer for violating the civil rights of Breonna Taylor during the execution of a search warrant in March 2020 that led to the tragic death of Taylor in her home.

    Brett Hankison, 46, was convicted on one count of civil rights abuse. Count one charged him with depriving Taylor of her constitutional rights when he fired five shots through a bedroom window that was covered with blinds and a blackout curtain. The jury found that Hankison used a dangerous weapon in the commission of the offense, and that his conduct involved an attempt to kill, although his shots did not strike Taylor. Hankison was found not guilty on count two, which charged him with depriving three of Taylor’s neighbors of their constitutional rights by firing five more shots through a sliding glass door that was also covered with blinds and a curtain.

    “Today, Brett Hankison was found guilty by a jury of his peers for willfully depriving Breonna Taylor of her constitutional rights,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “His use of deadly force was unlawful and put Ms. Taylor in harm’s way. This verdict is an important step toward accountability for the violation of Breonna Taylor’s civil rights, but justice for the loss of Ms. Taylor is a task that exceeds human capacity.”

    “This defendant is being held accountable for his willful and heinous use of deadly force that endangered the life of Breonna Taylor,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Breonna Taylor’s life mattered. We hope the jury’s verdict recognizing this violation of Ms. Taylor’s civil and constitutional rights brings some small measure of comfort to her family and loved ones who have suffered so deeply from the tragic events of March 2020. We hope that communities use this moment to say her name and to engrave on their hearts and minds Breonna Taylor’s life and enduring legacy. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously defend the civil rights of every person in this country to be free from unlawful police violence.”

    According to evidence at trial, during the execution of the warrant at Taylor’s home, officers knocked on Taylor’s door and announced themselves as police at approximately 12:45 a.m. No one answered the door, and the officers saw no indication that anyone in the home was awake or had heard their announcement. The police then rammed the door open and Taylor’s boyfriend, believing that intruders were breaking in, fired his handgun one time at officers, two of whom fired back, hitting and killing Taylor.

    Hankison was not one of the officers who fired from the doorway. He fired separately, from the side of the building, through a sliding glass door and a bedroom window, both of which were covered with closed blinds and curtains. Evidence showed that several of Hankison’s shots passed through Taylor’s apartment, pierced the interior walls and narrowly missed a young couple with a five-year-old child living next door to Taylor. Other shots flew over Taylor’s head as she lay on the floor of her apartment.

    At trial, numerous law enforcement witnesses testified that officers are trained never to fire their weapons at a target they cannot see. Officers who were on the scene for the execution of the warrant, and others who responded later, testified that Hankison violated LMPD training and the principles of law enforcement when he fired blindly into a crowded apartment complex. The Commander of LMPD’s SWAT unit, who responded to the scene shortly after the shooting, testified that he was in “shock and disbelief” when he learned that Hankison had fired into the covered windows in Ms. Taylor’s home. The jury also heard from her neighbors, who were nearly hit by Hankison’s bullets.

    Hankison will be sentenced on March 12, 2025. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Two other LMPD officers remain charged in connection with the search warrant executed at Taylor’s home. Former Detective Joshua Jaynes, 40, and LMPD Sergeant Kyle Meany, 35, are charged with federal civil rights and obstruction offenses for their roles in preparing and approving a falsified search warrant affidavit that resulted in the warrant that led to Taylor’s death. A trial will be set for a later date, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    Another former LMPD officer, Detective Kelly Goodlett, previously pleaded guilty to conspiring with Jaynes to falsify the affidavit used to obtain a search warrant for Taylor’s home and to cover up their actions after Taylor’s death. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 29, 2025.

    The FBI Louisville Field Office investigated the case.

    Special Litigation Counsel Michael J. Songer and Trial Attorney Anna Gotfryd of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department to Monitor Voting Compliance in Pawtucket, Providence, and Woonsocket

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE, RI – United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha announced today that the Justice Department will monitor compliance with federal voting rights laws in Pawtucket, Providence, and Woonsocket for the Nov. 5 general election.

    The Justice Department enforces federal voting rights laws that protect the rights of all eligible citizens to access the ballot. The department regularly deploys its staff to monitor for compliance with federal civil rights laws in elections in communities across the country.

    The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division will coordinate the effort. Monitors will include Justice Department personnel, who will contact state and local election officials as needed throughout Election Day.

    The Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section enforces the civil provisions of federal statutes that protect the right to vote, including the Voting Rights Act, National Voter Registration Act, Help America Vote Act, Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act and Civil Rights Acts. The division’s Disability Rights Section enforces the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure that persons with disabilities have a full and equal opportunity to vote. The division’s Criminal Section enforces federal criminal statutes that prohibit voter intimidation and voter suppression based on race, color, national origin or religion.

    On Election Day, Civil Rights Division personnel will be available all day to receive questions and complaints from the public related to possible violations of federal voting rights laws. Reports may be made through the department’s website www.civilrights.justice.gov or by calling toll-free at 800-253-3931. [The U.S. Attorney’s Office will also be available to receive complaints on Election Day at (401) 709-5010.

    Individuals with questions or complaints related to the ADA may call the department’s toll-free ADA information hotline at 800-514-0301 or 833-610-1264 (TTY) or submit a complaint through a link on the department’s ADA website at www.ada.gov.

    Complaints related to any disruptions at a polling place should always be reported to local election officials (including officials based in the polling place). Complaints related to violence, threats of violence or intimidation at a polling place should be reported immediately to local police authorities by calling 911. These complaints should also be reported to the department after local authorities have been contacted.

    More information about voting and elections, including guidance documents and other resources, is available at www.justice.gov/voting. Learn more about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting laws at www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Trail bike rider seriously injured in West Coast crash

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Trail bike rider seriously injured in West Coast crash

    Sunday, 3 November 2024 – 8:44 pm.

    A 16-year-old male rider has received serious injuries after being involved in a trail bike crash at Four Mile Creek on the state’s west coast.
    Emergency services, including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, responded to the incident and transferred the rider to the Royal Hobart Hospital for treatment.
    Initial investigations indicate the rider was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.Investigations into the crash are continuing.
    Anyone with information should call Police on 131444.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Port Lincoln bushfire

    Source: South Australia Police

    Two teens have been arrested following a bushfire in Port Lincoln this evening.

    Just before 6pm Sunday 3 November emergency services were called to the intersection of Bernard Place and Garrett Road after reports of a scrub fire burning in a north east direction.

    The fire was controlled by CFS and contained to an area of approximately an acre. No homes were impacted and there were no injuries.

    Following an investigation two local teens, a 13-year-old and a 16-year-old, were located near by and arrested. They are expected to be charged with bushfire related offences.

    Police would like to remind the public as we head into fire danger season that police will take a zero-tolerance approach to fires caused by deliberate, reckless or negligent behaviour – bushfires not only destroy communities and properties but have the potential to kill.

    If you see a fire, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

    Anyone with information about people deliberately lighting fires or engaging in reckless or negligent fire lighting behaviour, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard medevacs 2 people following zip-line collision in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    11/03/2024 08:25 AM EST

    The crew of a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter medevaced two injured people from the Carambola zip-line platform in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, Friday. Medevaced were Jason Bomar, 58, and Jeanne Glidewell, 32, both U.S. citizens, after they sustained multiple injuries associated with a high-speed collision on the zip-line. “This case highlights the importance of teamwork,” said Lt. David Tirado Tolosa, Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk aircraft commander for the medevac. “It was a complex location to hoist two injured persons, but our crew and the local rescue personnel did an amazing job stabilizing them which allowed us to conduct the hoists safely. We are very glad to have transported these patients to receive the medical care they required.”

    For more breaking news follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK increases support for Anguilla’s health, security and infrastructure as Minister for Overseas Territories visits islands

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK Minister for the Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty, will announce new support for Anguilla’s health and security infrastructure as he makes his first visit to the Overseas Territories this week (2-4 November).

    • UK Overseas Territories Minister will open Anguilla’s new emergency 911 control room and announce funding for new ambulances to be provided by February 2025
    • Further funding will finance an additional search and rescue vessel for Anguilla’s maritime search and rescue service
    • Visit to UK-funded high school and airport to take place as minister assesses impact and progress

    The UK Minister for the Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty, will announce new support for Anguilla’s health and security infrastructure as he makes his first visit to the Overseas Territories this week (2-4 November).

    The minister will be opening Anguilla’s new emergency 911 control room, partly funded by the UK government, and a facility that will be vital asset in helping to improve public safety. He will also formally announce the UK government’s provision of two new ambulances to Anguilla, and a new boat for assisting with coastal search and rescue operations.

    UK Overseas Territories Minister, Stephen Doughty said:

    “UK funding for Anguilla is helping islanders live healthier, safer, and more prosperous lives.

    “The new support I will announce is just the latest chapter in the UK’s close relationship with Anguilla, with sustainable investment and close partnership at its heart.”

    The minister will make a stop at the Royal Anguilla Police and National Emergency Operating Centre, where he will commend the force for their efforts in reducing gang violence in recent months. The UK has funded seven UK officers to help the Royal Anguilla Police Force tackle gang violence and conduct investigations on the island.

    The Minister will also visit the Princess Alexandra Hospital, where he will hear about the challenges faced by those working in Anguilla’s healthcare sector. UK funding has already provided a dialysis unit, reconstruction lab, isolation ward, and a new morgue, which will significantly improve coronial and post-mortem processes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Halifax — RCMP warns Retailers of increased credit card scams

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Nova Scotia RCMP’s Commercial Crime Section is reminding retailers that a province-wide trend continues where scammers are using stolen or compromised credit cards to pay for high-volume or expensive orders.

    Retailers should exercise extra caution when conducting sales over the phone, particularly in accepting credit card payments without the cardholder present. Recent incidents have included the fraudulent purchase of furniture, ATVs, tires, and other high-value items.

    Many credit card vendor agreements make the retailer responsible for purchases where it is determined the credit card was used without authorization from the true cardholder, even in cases of fraud. A charge-back dispute can be made against the vendor by the credit card company for such fraudulent transactions, in some cases after the product has already been shipped. This results in retailers losing both the product that was purchased fraudulently and the fraudulent payment.

    For more information on this, and other common scams, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online at https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm.

    Anyone who suspects they have been targeted by a scam is encouraged to contact their local police. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FEATURE: Coast Guard Fifth District Commander conducts coin toss at Elizabeth City State University football game

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    11/03/2024 10:08 AM EST

    ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – Rear Adm. John “Jay” Vann, commander of the Fifth Coast Guard District, attended the Elizabeth City State University Vikings final home game against the Bowie State University Bulldogs Saturday, where he kicked off the game by conducting the official coin toss. As part of the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Coast Guard Pathways Program, Vann serves as the Executive Champion for ECSU’s College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI). As the Executive Champion, Vann has the authority to select one student each year for the CSPI program.

    For more information follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pointe des Robichaud — 28-year-old man dies following single-vehicle crash

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 28-year-old man from Judique, Nova Scotia, has died following a single-vehicle crash in Pointe des Robichaud, New Brunswick.

    On November 3, 2024, at approximately 1:00 a.m., members of the Tracadie RCMP detachment responded to a report of a single vehicle crash on Highway 11, in Pointe des Robichaud.

    The crash is believed to have occurred when the vehicle, travelling Southbound, crossed the center line and hit two power poles, and three people were ejected from the vehicle. One man died at the scene and another two men were taken to hospital to be treated for their injuries.

    Members of the Tracadie Fire Department and Ambulance New Brunswick also attended the scene. An RCMP collision reconstructionist and a member of the New Brunswick Coroner’s office is assisting with the investigation.

    An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the man’s exact cause of death.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Yarmouth — Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit investigating suspicious deaths

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit is investigating two suspicious deaths that occurred in Yarmouth.

    On November 1, at approximately 2:40 p.m., Yarmouth Town RCMP responded to the sudden deaths of two adults who were known to each other. Responding officers found the remains of a 58-year-old man and a 49-year-old woman inside a home on Placid Crt.

    The deaths are being treated as suspicious.

    The ongoing investigation into the deaths is being led by the Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit with assistance from Yarmouth Town RCMP, the Yarmouth Town RCMP General Investigation Section, Yarmouth Rural RCMP, the Shelburne Street Crime Enforcement Unit, Forensic Identification Services, Digital Forensics Services, Southwest Nova Traffic Services, and the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service.

    The investigation is in its early stages; no further details will be released at this time.

    Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Homicide inquiry underway, Glen Eden

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A homicide investigation is underway following the death of a woman in Glen Eden last night.

    Emergency services were called to a family harm incident at a Brandon Road address at about 11.08pm.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Kim Libby, Waitemata CIB says a woman was found in a critical condition with multiple stab wounds and was transported to hospital, however she died a short time later.

    “A 33-year-old man was arrested at the scene and has been charged with her murder.

    “He will appear in Waitākere District Court today and Police are not currently seeking anyone else in relation to this matter.”

    Detective Senior Sergeant Libby says cordons remain in place and a scene examination is underway.

    “An increased Police presence will remain in the area while enquiries are carried out, however we do not believe there is any ongoing risk to the public.

    “Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and we are providing them with support at this tragic time.”

    He says Police would like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area overnight and witnessed anything of note, or has any information in relation to this incident.

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 or call 105.

    Please reference file number 241104/8083.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI St. Louis Election Command Post

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

    In keeping with our standard Election Day protocol, FBI St. Louis has stood up an Election Command Post in preparation for the election on November 5. The command post is staffed 24 hours a day to provide a centralized location for assessing election-related threats in our area of responsibility. The FBI has a duty to plan for a host of potential scenarios related to election fraud, voter suppression, foreign malign influence, malicious cyber activity against election infrastructure, and threats to election workers. We are committed to protecting the American public’s right to a fair and safe election. 
      
    For decades, the FBI has served as the primary agency responsible for investigating allegations of federal election crimes, including campaign finance violations, ballot/voter fraud, and civil rights violations. In close partnership with Department of Justice (DOJ), the FBI established the Election Threats Task Force to identify and address reported threats targeting election workers. 
      
    The FBI takes our responsibility very seriously, and works closely with our federal, state, and local partners to identify and stop any potential threats to public safety. We gather and analyze intelligence to determine whether individuals might be motivated to take violent action for any reason, including due to concerns about the election. 
      
    It is vital the FBI, our law enforcement partners, and the public work together to protect our communities as Americans exercise their right to vote. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The FBI takes all threats of violence seriously, including threats targeting those who do the critical work of administering free and fair elections throughout the U.S. 
      
    The Justice Department has long recognized that the states—not the federal government—are responsible for administering elections, determining the validity of votes, and tabulating the results, with challenges handled by the appropriate election administrators, officials, legislatures, and courts.  The Department’s role is limited to investigating and prosecuting violations of federal election laws and deterring criminal conduct. 
      
    FBI St. Louis encourages citizens to report allegations of election fraud and other election abuses. You can reach the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: False plates land one in court

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    The driver of a vehicle bearing false plates who allegedly attempted to attack a Police dog with a garden tool will now face court.

    Just after 3.30am, Police spotted a vehicle travelling on Motatau Road, Papatoetoe bearing a false rear plate and no front plate.

    Counties Manukau West Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Steve Albrey, says the vehicle was quickly confirmed as stolen and was stopped shortly after.

    “Three occupants were taken into custody quickly, however a fourth occupant has fled on foot.

    “Delta, the Police dog unit, has tracked the person to a residential property where he has allegedly attempted to attack the dog with a garden trowel, which resulted in a bite to his upper arm.”

    Senior Sergeant Albrey says the 26-year-old man was treated for his injury and will appear in Manukau District Court today charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

    “Thankfully the dog was uninjured and we are pleased to have made an arrest on this matter.

    “This was a great outcome from our staff last night who have now put a man before the Court.”

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI El Paso to Stand Up Election Command Post

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

    In keeping with our standard Election Day protocol, FBI El Paso has stood up an Election Command Post in preparation for the November 5 election. The command post is staffed 24 hours a day to provide a centralized location for assessing election-related threats in our area of responsibility. The FBI has a duty to plan for a host of potential scenarios related to election fraud, voter suppression, foreign malign influence, malicious cyber activity against election infrastructure, and threats to election workers. We are committed to protecting the American public’s right to a fair and safe election. 

    For decades, the FBI has served as the primary agency responsible for investigating allegations of federal election crimes, including campaign finance violations, ballot/voter fraud, and civil rights violations. In close partnership with Department of Justice (DOJ), the FBI established the Election Threats Task Force to identify and address reported threats targeting election workers. 

    The FBI takes our responsibility very seriously, and works closely with our federal, state, and local partners to identify and stop any potential threats to public safety. We gather and analyze intelligence to determine whether individuals might be motivated to take violent action for any reason, including due to concerns about the election. 

    It is vital the FBI, our law enforcement partners, and the public work together to protect our communities as Americans exercise their right to vote. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The FBI takes all threats of violence seriously, including threats targeting those who do the critical work of administering free and fair elections throughout the U.S. 

    The Justice Department has long recognized that the states—not the federal government—are responsible for administering elections, determining the validity of votes, and tabulating the results, with challenges handled by the appropriate election administrators, officials, legislatures, and courts.  The Department’s role is limited to investigating and prosecuting violations of federal election laws and deterring criminal conduct.

    FBI El Paso encourages citizens to report allegations of election fraud and other election abuses to FBI El Paso directly at (915) 832-5000.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Las Vegas Election Command Post

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

    In keeping with our standard Election Day protocol, FBI Las Vegas has stood up an Election Command Post in preparation for the election on November 5. The command post is staffed 24 hours a day to provide a centralized location for assessing election-related threats in our area of responsibility. The FBI has a duty to plan for a host of potential scenarios related to election fraud, voter suppression, foreign malign influence, malicious cyber activity against election infrastructure, and threats to election workers. We are committed to protecting the American public’s right to a fair and safe election.

    For decades, the FBI has served as the primary agency responsible for investigating allegations of federal election crimes, including campaign finance violations, ballot/voter fraud, and civil rights violations. In close partnership with Department of Justice (DOJ), the FBI established the Election Threats Task Force to identify and address reported threats targeting election workers.

    The FBI takes our responsibility very seriously and works closely with our federal, state, and local partners to identify and stop any potential threats to public safety. We gather and analyze intelligence to determine whether individuals might be motivated to take violent action for any reason, including due to concerns about the election.

    It is vital the FBI, our law enforcement partners, and the public work together to protect our communities as Americans exercise their right to vote. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The FBI takes all threats of violence seriously, including threats targeting those who do the critical work of administering free and fair elections throughout the U.S.

    The Justice Department has long recognized that the states—not the federal government—are responsible for administering elections, determining the validity of votes, and tabulating the results, with challenges handled by the appropriate election administrators, officials, legislatures, and courts. The Department’s role is limited to investigating and prosecuting violations of federal election laws and deterring criminal conduct.

    FBI Las Vegas encourages citizens to report allegations of election fraud and other election abuses. You can reach the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PSA – Mental health workers fear for safety of patients after police withdrawal of support – PSA survey

    Source: PSA

    – Nine out of 10 workers say change will increase risks to them and clients
    – Two out of three workers not confident workplace can manage risks
    – Nine out of 10 workers say change will add to already heavy workloads
    Mental health workers fear serious harm to themselves, their clients and members of the public from the withdrawal of police support for mental health call outs, a PSA survey shows.
    The phased withdrawal of police from responding to mental health callouts begins today. This includes police staying in EDs for a maximum of 60 minutes, falling to 15 minutes.
    “Mental health workers are saying loud and clear the implementation of the change is profoundly unsafe and that the risks of serious harm to them, the people in their care and the public are very high,” said Ashok Shankar, Health Lead for Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “We are calling on Te Whatu Ora and the police to delay this change until we can be reassured it can be done safely. Our members are at the frontline of this change, they know the risks, so it’s extremely disappointing that their views to date have been ignored.
    “It’s high time both the Health and Mental Health Ministers step in before real harm is caused.
    “Te Whatu Ora is failing to properly plan for the transition to the new regime despite months of consultation. Our members are not getting the extra training they deserve to adjust to the change.
    “One highly experienced mental health worker, who leads a team, said he only received a raft of documents explaining changes to operating procedures 10 days out from the 4 November start date.
    ‘These changes are going to add to the burden of what we endure now’, he said. He warned Te Whatu Ora that ‘patients, the public and staff will be injured, maimed and no doubt die in response to these changes and the poor planning and resourcing that goes with it’.
    Ashok Shankar said: “Mental health crisis teams are already under extreme stress – workloads are as heavy as they have ever been, yet the Government is allowing even more pressure to pile on overstretched teams.
    “Te Whatu Ora needs to expand mental health teams and provide additional training, if required, so they can safely pick up the burden of taking over from the police.
    “But the hiring freeze and the Government’s failure to properly fund Te Whatu Ora is making a dire situation that much worse.
    “The survey shows members expect time taken to see people in distress will increase. It will mean those with less urgent needs will wait even longer as more urgent cases are prioritised. Their health outcomes are being put at risk. That’s just not acceptable when we already have a mental health crisis in this country.
    “Mental health should be a priority – all of us want the best outcome for the people and their families facing challenges, but this process of police handover feels botched from the get-go – patients and workers may pay a heavy price,” said Ashok Shankar.
    ENDS
    Summary of findings from PSA survey (attached summary graphs)
    The survey was taken between 8 and 22 October 2024 and sent to 6,151 members who work in mental health. It attracted 438 responses. The margin of error is 5% at a 95% confidence interval.
    – 66% of workers say they are not confident in the ability of their workplace to manage risk. Only 12% are confident.
    – 38% disagree or strongly disagree that their workplace has a process in place to assess risk in mental health response
    – 88% say it will increase safety risk for clients
    – 91% say it will increase safety risk for workers
    – 86% say it risks increasing workloads
    – 72% say it risks increasing the time taken to see people
    Sample of quotes from survey of mental health workers
    I can understand the pressures that the police service are under and the reasons they want to withdraw, however there is no alternative in place so this just leaves a dangerous void in the process and I would not be surprised if there is an increase in incidents and possibly even lives being at risk.
    I do not understand how an 111 operator with just one days training in mental health could over rule the registered mental health professional decision who could be facing an client and made a risk assessment.
    Police are the only ones who can detain under the Act, and therefore, a withdrawal of their support when requested means more people will go without treatment, more people will fall off the act, the more people with become unwell, and the more mental health patients will end up in Police custody
    As a staff member I am left wondering of we will be safe and whether we will have to argue with police comms to get officers to respond to a danger to life. Having the building smashed up is scary enough but risk to staff, clients and the public is even worse.
    I think it is appropriate. My only concern is if Police take it upon themselves to determine if a person is mentally disordered or not. It could open the gate for police to deliver people to ED who are socially problematic but do not meet a criminal offense threshold. Would not want to see ED inappropriately burdened with these people. Perhaps police liaison nurses, based with Police would be a better use of a resource.
    The withdrawal of police at mental health jobs ultimately shows a failure in resource division at the national government level.
    I feel sorry for the police, but our system is in crisis. I am actually returning to work at present after being knocked out by a patient and having several months off with a nasty concussion. I don’t want this to happen again to myself or any other staff. I am lucky that I did not suffer a more serious injury.
    We are feeling very anxious about the safety of both ourselves and the patients and families involved with the withdrawal process. While we understand that we have the right to refuse and walk away, doing so may leave families at risk with individuals who are very unwell.
    It makes me reconsider my career choices. Do I really want to be in a front-line role where I have to justify my requests for assistance by Police in writing to non-health professionals with limited training in assessing mental health risk?
    The most important change that could be made is for us to have more staff, skilled staff rather than inexperienced ones that we have to spend time teaching when there already is too much to do in terms of clinical assessments.
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Staff intervene during property damage

    Source: South Australia Police

    A man was arrested at licenced premises in Fullarton yesterday after causing damage and assaulting staff members.

    About 2pm Sunday 3 November police were called to a hotel on Glen Osmond Road after a man entered the gaming room and caused damage to a number of pokie machines. Staff intervened and were allegedly assaulted by the man, however they were able to restrain him until police arrived.

    Police attended and placed the 34-year-old NSW man under arrest. He has been charged with property damage, two counts of assault, affray and possess controlled drug.

    The man was refused bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court Monday 4 November. He was also issued a barring order from the premises.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: VIDEO AVAILABLE: Coast Guard medevacs 66-year-old woman 92 miles southeast of Southwest Pass, Louisiana

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 8th District Heartland
    Contact: 8th District Public Affairs
    Office: 504-671-2020
    After Hours: 618-225-9008
    Eighth District online newsroom

     

    Port conditions change based on weather forecasts, and current port conditions can be viewed on the following Coast Guard homeport webpages:

    For more information follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: UPDATE: State Highway 2 Kaitoke to Featherston now OPEN following serious crash

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    10:15 am:

    State Highway 2 is now open to traffic in both directions following this morning’s serious crash.

    The highway was closed for around four hours while the Police Serious Crash Unit carried out an investigation, and the crash scene was cleared.

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi thanks drivers for their patience and cooperation during this closure.

    9 am:

    State Highway 2 remains closed between Kaitoke and Featherston following a serious crash earlier this morning.

    The Police Serious Crash Unit  is at the scene conducting an investigation – the highway is closed while this is on-going.

    Drivers must avoid the area, delay their journey, or use an alternative route – the Paihiatua Track (Aokautere – Paihiatua) or Saddle Road (Woodville – Ashurst). These require up to three hours additional travel time.

    Further updates will be provided when the road’s status changes

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    6:10 am:

    State Highway 2 is closed near Kaitoke as emergency services and contractors attend a serious crash in the area.

    The two-car collision, near the intersections of Gilbert Road and Waterworks Road, was reported around five o’clock this morning.

    State Highway 2 is currently closed between Gilbert Road and Waterworks Road, meaning there is no access between  Upper Hutt and Featherston. This closure will be extended to cover all of Remutaka Hill,  Kaitoke – Featherston.

    The highway is expected to remain closed for several hours while the crash is cleared, and a Police Serios Crash Unit investigation is completed.

    Drivers must follow the instructions of emergency services at the scene.

    Road users are asked to avoid the area, delay their journeys, or use an alternative route.

    The only alternative routes between Wellington and Wairarapa are the Paihiatua Track (Aokautere – Paihiatua) or Saddle Road (Woodville – Ashurst). These require up to three hours additional travel time.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    Meanwhile, drivers can also expect delays on State Highway 59 near Pukerua Bay where a crash has blocked the road’s southbound lane. People travelling between Paekākāriki and Porirua should use State Highway 1 as an alternative route.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Kim, Nickel Lead Bipartisan Bill to Protect Consumers from Credit Card Repair Scams

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Wiley Nickel (NC-13) introduced the Ending Scam Credit Repair Act (ESCRA) to combat fraudulent practices in the credit repair industry. The bill targets credit repair organizations (CROs) that exploit consumers by charging high fees without delivering on promises to improve credit scores. By strengthening CROs regulations, the bill will ensure transparency and accountability in the industry.

    The bipartisan Ending Scam Credit Repair Act empowers consumers by ensuring that CROs only receive payment after delivering documented improvements to credit reports, while increasing civil penalties for violations.

    “Credit scores can be the key to unlocking the American dream. Fraudulent CROs should not get away with scamming hardworking Americans seeking to improve their scores,” said Congresswoman Young Kim. “The Ending Scam Credit Repair Act creates accountability and transparency for consumers and hikes penalties for scammers. I’m thrilled to introduce the bipartisan Ending Scam Credit Repair Act and will continue to work on commonsense solutions to protect the American dream.”

    “Too many hard-working Americans have been scammed by bad actors in the credit repair industry,” said Congressman Wiley Nickel. “Our bill puts a stop to these deceptive practices by banning upfront fees, improving dispute transparency, and requiring state registration. Consumers deserve real results, not empty promises and financial loss.”

    “Financial-services companies and consumer advocacy groups are grateful for congressional action on behalf of consumers, having seen first-hand the real harm credit repair organizations cause consumers, often charging hundreds of dollars a month, but yielding few if any positive results,” said Bill Himpler, President and CEO, American Financial Services Association (AFSA).

    “Paying for credit repair is almost always a waste of money,” said Andrew Pizor, senior attorney, National Consumer Law Center (NCLC). “The amendment from Representatives Nickel and Kim will help ensure consumers are not prey to credit repair scams and that they don’t get charged unless they get the results they are paying for.”

    Edward Boltz, Legislative Chair of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA), whose members represent people in and after bankruptcy, agreed that the “Ending Credit Repair Scams Act” will stop credit repair jamming schemes which mislead consumers by holding themselves out as “lawyers,” but “will also now make it clear that honest attorneys can provide advice and assistance to those who need real help with credit report errors.”

    Read the full bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Disappointing driver behaviour over long weekend

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Disappointing driver behaviour over long weekend

    Monday, 4 November 2024 – 10:22 am.

    Police have expressed disappointment after several people were caught drink and drug driving, speeding, not wearing seat belts, using mobile phones illegally and driving without a licence in the North West over the weekend.
    Inspector Adam Spencer from Western Road Policing Services said police were upfront that officers would be out in force over the long weekend.
    “We were out and about in rural and popular tourist areas as we said we would be,” he said.
    “This included a major police operation in the Smithton and Arthur River areas, and the results were very disappointing.”
    “Between Queenstown, Smithton, Devonport and Burnie, our police issued 24 infringement notices.”
    “Police will again be out in force as the long weekend continues today, you can expect to see us again on highways, urban and rural roads.”
    “Please do the right thing and obey the road rules so everyone can get home safely.”
    Results included:

    28-year-old man intercepted in Devonport and returned a reading of 0.243, almost five times the legal limit. Disqualified from driving and will appear in court.
    40-year-old Burnie woman intercepted following reports she was driving under the influence after leaving a licensed premises. Returned a reading of 0.178. Disqualified from driving and will appear in court.
    66-year-old Montagu man caught drink driving and not wearing a seatbelt. Disqualified from driving and will appear in court.
    60-year-old Boat Harbour man returned a positive drug test and quantities of a controlled substance were located in his vehicle. He will be summoned to court.
    26-year-old Devonport man caught hooning. He was arrested and charged and the vehicle was clamped.
    33-year-old Devonport woman caught driving disqualified. Will appear in court.
    43-year-old Irish Town man detected speeding 32km/h over the posted limit on Blackwater Road, West Coast. Given five demerit points and a $606 fine.
    59-year-old Port Sorell man detected speeding 33km/h over the posted limit on Backline Road, Forest. Given five demerit points and a $606 fine.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Better health taking flight for rural and regional Tasmanians

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    As part of the Albanese and Rockliff governments’ commitment to improving the state’s regional healthcare, the new Tasmanian home of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) is a step closer, with planning and design works underway.

    The $21.3 million redevelopment will support the RFDS to expand its operations, and was made possible by $15 million from the Albanese Government, $6 million from the Rockliff Government, and additional support from the RFDS.

    The new base at Launceston Airport will boost capacity for rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, as well as ground vehicle transfers, and will include space needed to cater for surge workers through either infectious disease outbreaks, or for fire-fighting personnel to tackle bushfires.

    This will enable the RFDS to increase outreach support such as mobile mental health services, mobile dental services, and mobile general practitioner services – and support them to deliver urgent care to people across regional Tasmania.

    Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain joined Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell last week to inspect the site of the new base, and to receive an update on the project.

    Up to 62 full time jobs will be supported during the construction phase, with up to 41 ongoing jobs in the healthcare sector set to be created once operational in 2027.

    When completed, the facility will also house staff and equipment for other emergency service providers, including Ambulance Tasmania, Tasmanian Police and the Fixed Wing Aeromedical Providers.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain:

    “It was fantastic to visit RFDS Tasmania to see planning work on this important redevelopment progressing – a region-shaping project made possible thanks to $15 million from the Albanese Government.

    “Your postcode shouldn’t impact the quality of your healthcare, which is why we’re partnering with the RFDS to improve and expand their services across regional Australia – with this project to ensure Tasmanians can continue to access support when they need it.”

    Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma:

    “The Tasmanian Liberal Government’s $6 million investment for the new base will enable the RFDS to continue its vital work. 

    “Not only will this project improve access to healthcare across regional Tasmania, it will support local jobs during construction, and once the upgraded site is operational.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell:

    “While the RFDS’s current home in Tasmania has served the community for 20 years, our government is getting on with updating the site ensure it continues to provide the service Tasmanian needs and deserves. 

    “By securing the future of the Royal Flying Doctor Service at Launceston Airport, we’re ensuring that the RFDS can continue to deliver lifesaving care throughout our state, from clinic charter services to road transfers.”

    Quotes attributable to RFDS Tasmania Board Chair, Malcolm White and CEO Nicole Henty:

    “The Royal Flying Doctor Service Tasmania is delighted to be building a new world class facility. We are grateful to both the Federal and State Governments for coming together to support this initiative and help us construct this base at Launceston Airport”

    “This is an exciting development for the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Tasmania and we look forward to developing an aeromedical base that all Tasmanians can be proud of.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal for information following burglary, Roxburgh

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Alexandra Police are wanting to hear from anyone who witnessed a man acting suspiciously around vehicles in the Roxburgh area on Sunday.

    A man was arrested following a burglary at a commercial premises on Teviot Street, Roxburgh just before midday.

    He was found to be in possession of a quantity of coins, and Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed a man interfering with vehicles or acting suspiciously on Sunday morning around Teviot Street and the surrounding areas.

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241102/4429.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. 

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $21 million for alcohol and drug services in Northern NSW, as Drug Summit begins in Lismore

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 4 November 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Health

    The NSW Government is committing $21 million over four years to enhance alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment and support for people in Northern NSW, as the second day of the regional Drug Summit begins in Lismore.

    This includes $6.8 million for three new programs to be provided by not-for-profit AOD services and mental health organisation The Buttery, including:

    • $2.6 million for a new day rehabilitation program and counselling for people with dependent children;
    • $2 million over four years for community-based withdrawal management and counselling for priority population groups; and
    • $2.2 million over four years for a new post-custodial support service.

    Community Rehabilitation

    The Community Rehabilitation for Parents program will provide day rehabilitation with individual care-coordination, counselling, and psychosocial support for up to six months for people aged over 18 with a substance use disorder and dependent children.

    The program is expected to support up to 48 people each year.

    Withdrawal management and counselling

    People will be offered withdrawal management in partnership with local GPs, assertive case-management and AOD psychosocial counselling for up to six months.

    Face to face and virtual care will be available. Up to 360 people will be able to receive treatment each year across Northern NSW and the Mid-North Coast.

    Post-custodial support

    Case management and support will be offered to people in Northern NSW and the Mid North Coast up to three months prior to release from custody and up to 12 months post-release.

    Northern NSW Local Health District services

    As part of this announcement, Northern NSW Local Health District will receive funding to support the following services:

    • $1.5 million to establish Substance Use in Pregnancy and Parenting Services across multiple locations including Tweed Byron Ballina, Richmond and Grafton. A virtual care component will support mothers and parents in rural locations to enable increased engagement with AOD services.
    • $700,000 to expand alcohol and other drug hospital consultation services in Lismore, Tweed, Clarence and Byron/Ballina to better support acute services, provide extended hours of coverage, and virtual care.
    • $1.6 million for expansion and integration of AOD services for young people, including enhance partnerships with other agencies including Department of Communities and Justice, Headspace, Youth Justice and HARP. The service will be available in 3 locations and includes virtual care.

    Drug Summit in Lismore

    The 2024 Drug Summit is underway in NSW with the second regional forum taking place in Lismore today, following the first day of the Summit in Griffith last Friday.

    The Summit will also be held in Sydney on 4 and 5 December, bringing together health experts, police, people with lived and living experiences, drug user organisations, families and other stakeholders to provide a range of perspectives.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

    “I am so proud to be able to announce this important investment into life changing services for the people of Northern NSW, on the second day of the regional Drug Summit in Lismore.

    “It’s vital that we continue to support community organisations like The Buttery to help people achieve recovery and rebuild their lives.

    “This funding will focus on increasing access to evidence-based treatment, prevention, and early intervention services especially in regional and rural areas.

    “These new programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of people living in regional areas, and priority population groups including Aboriginal people, pregnant women, people with mental health conditions, young people, and people involved in the criminal justice system.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin:

    “The Northern NSW community will benefit from this major funding boost, which will significantly improve health and social outcomes for people at risk of alcohol and other drug related harm, and their families.

    “I look forward to listening and reflecting on the experience and expertise of everyone contributing to the second day of the regional Drug Summit in Lismore, so we can better understand how to support our community.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The winner is Sydney! Our marathon is the next ‘World Major’

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 4 November 2024

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Jobs, Minister for Tourism

    Sydney is taking its place among the iconic marathon cities of the world, becoming just the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major alongside New York, London, Tokyo, Boston, Chicago and Berlin.

    With the support of the NSW Government over a three-year candidacy and review period, the Sydney Marathon now joins the elite club of Abbott World Marathon Majors after international organisers announced their decision at the New York Marathon overnight.

    Sydney’s new status is expected to drive a wave of international and interstate runners, along with familes, friends and event support crew to visit NSW.

    The Sydney Marathon will become an instant bucket list event for thousands of runners across the globe who have already achieved the “six star medal” for completing all six major marathons – and thousands more who have been aiming for the same goal but will now want to add Sydney to their to-do list.

    Major status positions Sydney as the major events capital of the Asia Pacific and brings global spotlight, with other marathons being watched by an average global broadcast audience of 20 million viewers.

    Currently, all six Abbott World Marathon Majors are oversubscribed. For example, more than 840,000 people have applied to run in the London Marathon next year, with only about 55,000 places on offer.

    Destination NSW estimates an extra $73 million in visitor expenditure will be added to the NSW economy over the next three years as a result of Sydney Marathon’s elevation. Over a decade, an extra $300 million will be added to the economy, with many visitors to Sydney taking the opportunity to visit regional NSW while in Australia.

    The elevation of the Sydney Marathon to major status has been made possible through a funding and strategic partnership with the NSW Government through Destination NSW. Government support was a requirement of the Abbott World Marathon Majors criteria and involves cross agency collaboration with Transport for NSW, Destination NSW, NSW Police and NSW Ambulance.

    The TCS Sydney Marathon cleared its final hurdle in September after three years of being judged against the assessment criteria of Abbott World Marathon Majors.

    There were 25,000 registered runners for the marathon that winds its way through the harbour city and finishes at the Sydney Opera House.

    Participation in the Sydney Marathon has increased by 400% since 2022, from 5,000 entries to 25,000 in 2024. It is expected that 33,300 will greet the starter’s gun in August 2025, rising to 37,800 in 2027.

    Ongoing support for the Sydney Marathon is part of the broader Minns Government plan to grow the NSW Visitor Economy to $91 billion in expenditure by 2035.

    New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said:

    “We’re thrilled Australia’s only global city, Sydney is now a member of the world majors club, following the great marathon cities of Boston, Chicago, New York, Berlin, Tokyo and London.

    “Achieving major marathon status is a huge honour and we are proud to be a funding and strategic partner of the Sydney Marathon.

    “These runners, their supporters and fans who come to watch will bring a huge boost to the local economy.

    “We have ambitious plans to boost the number of visitors in NSW and this event is another feather in our cap.

    “NSW is an unbeatable hotspot for tourists across the globe and we look forward to welcoming them next year, providing a multi million dollar boost to the economy and an unforgettable experience for the runners on one of the most scenic marathon courses in the world.”

    Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said:

    “They are the bucket list events that runners from across the world want to tick off. Now Sydney Marathon joins them at the starting line.

    “Sydneysiders get behind a sporting event like no other city and we know more and more people will embrace the marathon whether that is aspiring to complete it or getting out to support those who do.

    “Sydney Marathon 2025 will draw more visitors, but the NSW Government is just as excited by the economic boost this will provide over the long run as the status of the event grows.

    “I congratulate Sydney Marathon organisers and those who worked on its candidacy, backed by Destination NSW. This is a remarkable achievement.”

    Wayne Larden, race director of the TCS Sydney Marathon said:

    “Becoming the 7th Abbott World Marathon Major is just incredible for the event, as well as for Sydney and NSW.

    “This amazing milestone is going to have a profound impact on running in Australia, inspiring the community to become a marathoner and do something special for themselves, their families and friends. Community health will benefit alongside a huge increase in fundraising.

    “We are so excited to deliver the 2025 event as the 7th Abbott World Marathon Major and join the greatest marathon series and events on the planet!”

    “We could not have achieved such incredible growth in competitors and uplift in delivery to make it into the World Majors if it wasn’t for the support of the NSW Government through Destination NSW, and our partners TCS and ASICS. Our Pont3 team are first rate and have put in so much work to make this happen.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister unveils game changing investment to tackle national security threat from people smuggling gangs

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The Prime Minister is set to announce an additional £75 million to boost border security, bringing the investment in the Border Security Command over the next two years to £150 million.

    • PM to outline major investments to smash criminal smuggling gangs at INTERPOL General Assembly in Glasgow
    • New capabilities for Border Security Command from £150 million funding pot to drive down Organised Immigration Crime both at home and overseas 
    • New additional funding will cover state-of-the-art tech and information centres, boosts to enforcement and intelligence resourcing and expanding CPS capacity

    The Prime Minister is set to announce an additional £75 million to boost border security, bringing the investment in the Border Security Command over the next two years to £150 million. 

    Marking the first time the INTERPOL General Assembly has been hosted in the UK in over 50 years, Keir Starmer will today (4 November) open the Assembly in Glasgow by setting out his personal mission to smash the people smuggling gangs by resetting the UK’s whole approach to this challenge and intensifying international collaboration to meet the global scale of the threat.

    The General Assembly is INTERPOL’s supreme governing body and comprises senior ministerial and policing leads from the organisation’s 196 member states. 

    In his speech, the Prime Minister will set out his plans to draw on his experience of bringing together agencies to tackle international terrorist and drug smuggling gangs during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions to dismantle the people smuggling gangs who drive illegal migration, profit from human misery and represent a serious threat to global security. 

    He will also set out how the £150 million will provide additional specialist investigators and state of the art surveillance equipment to ensure those behind this criminal activity are stopped and brought to justice. 

    This major funding boost for the government’s new Border Security Command will initially be directed towards a range of enforcement and intelligence activity, including:

    • Investing heavily in NCA technology and capabilities, delivering advanced data exploitation and improvements to technologies to boost collaboration with European partners to investigate and break people smuggling networks.
    • 300 staff for the new Border Security Command, who will strengthen global partnerships, deliver new legislation and lead the system through investment and strategy.
    • 100 specialist investigators and intelligence officers for the NCA, dedicated to tackling criminals who facilitate people smuggling. 

    • Creating a new specialist OIC Intelligence Source Unit which will cohere intelligence flows from key police forces. 

    • Boosting the Crown Prosecution Service’s ability to deliver charging decisions more quickly on international organised crime cases. 

    The Border Security Command, led by Martin Hewitt CBE QPM, will be provided with enhanced powers – through a new Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill – to tackle organised immigration crime whilst providing for strong and effective border security. 

    New measures will make it easier to detect, disrupt and deter those seeking to engage in and benefit from organised immigration crime. The Command will also coordinate the work of intelligence agencies and law enforcement, who lead joint investigations with European counterparts to ensure we can bring those responsible to justice.

    Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to say:

    “The world needs to wake up to the severity of this challenge.  I was elected to deliver security for the British people. And strong borders are a part of that. But security doesn’t stop at our borders.  

    “There’s nothing progressive about turning a blind eye as men, women and children die in the Channel.

    “This is a vile trade that must be stamped out – wherever it thrives. So we’re taking our approach to counter-terrorism – which we know works, and applying it to the gangs, with our new Border Security Command. 

    “We’re ending the fragmentation between policing, Border Force and our intelligence agencies.”

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: 

    “Criminal smuggler gangs profit from undermining our border security and putting lives at risk and they have been getting away with it for far too long.

    “Our new Border Security Command, with the investment set out today, will mean a huge step change in the way we target these criminal gangs. People smugglers and traffickers operate in networks across borders, that’s why we have launched a major boost to our cooperation with international partners including other European countries, the G7 and Europol, and why we are so pleased to be hosting the INTERPOL conference on tackling international crime in Glasgow today.”

    The Prime Minister will also announce that the UK Government has increased its in-year support for INTERPOL’s global operations through a £6 million investment which harnesses the organisation’s unique capabilities to tackle serious organised crime affecting the UK. 

    Addressing the General Assembly, the Prime Minister will say that closer cooperation with international partners is key as he details how the gangs’ operations span from the money markets in Kabul through to the Kurdish region of Iraq and right across Europe and into the UK. 

    He will stress the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening security agreements to facilitate greater sharing of intelligence and more joint operational work, in particular through Europol. 

    The Home Office will also invest £24m in the new financial year to tackle international serious organised crime affecting the UK including drugs and firearms, fraud, trafficking and exploitation. Funds will in part be used to bolster work done by special prosecutors and operational partners in the Western Balkans.

    There were more than 5,000 drug related deaths in 2023, with most of the illegal drugs causing these coming from overseas or facilitated by transnational gangs. ISOC funding will also be used to tackle drug smuggling upstream and at the UK border, building on recent successes, such as the effective collaboration with the US and Ecuador, which has resulted in the seizure of 19 tonnes of cocaine.

    National Crime Agency Director General Graeme Biggar said:

    “Serious and organised crime causes more harm, to more people, more often than any other national security threat. And almost all of serious and organised crime now has an international nexus. Distance, borders and languages are meaningless to criminals. This is why collaborations with INTERPOL have never been as important as they are today.

    “Tackling organised crime, and especially immigration crime, remains a top priority for the NCA. We are currently leading around 70 investigations into the gangs or individuals involved in the highest echelons of this type of criminality, and we are devoting more resources to it than ever before.

    “We have built up our intelligence sharing effort with law enforcement partners across Europe and beyond, including having more NCA officers based overseas, sharing intelligence and working side by side on joint investigations. This approach is bringing operational results with arrests and prosecutions, but we are also we are seeking to disrupt the people smugglers’ business model, through targeting their social media offering, their supply routes for equipment, and their financial flows.

    “We are determined to do all we can to disrupt and dismantle these networks, wherever they operate.”

    The announcement comes just a month after Britain joined up to a new G7 anti migrant smuggling action plan which included pledges to bolster border security, combat transnational organised crime, and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation by smugglers. 

    The plan includes new, intelligence-led joint investigative actions to target criminal smuggling routes, working with social media platforms and internet providers to remove harmful content promoting illegal migration services or advertising fake job opportunities, and strengthening capabilities to monitor and anticipate irregular migration flows at both global and regional levels.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal pedestrian strike – Darwin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    On Wednesday 30 October, Northern Territory Police responded to reports of a pedestrian being struck by a bicycle in Nakara.

    Around 3:15pm, a youth on a bicycle collided with a 49-year-old woman on the corner of Goodman Street and Rowling Street.

    The woman was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital with serious injuries and later succumbed to her injuries on Saturday 2 November 2024.

    A report will be prepared for the coroner.

    The Lives Lost on Territory Roads in 2024 now stands at 54.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Prime Minister unveils game changing investment to tackle national security threat from people smuggling gangs

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    The Prime Minister is set to announce an additional £75 million to boost border security, bringing the investment in the Border Security Command over the next two years to £150 million.

    • PM to outline major investments to smash criminal smuggling gangs at INTERPOL General Assembly in Glasgow
    • New capabilities for Border Security Command from £150 million funding pot to drive down Organised Immigration Crime both at home and overseas 
    • New additional funding will cover state-of-the-art tech and information centres, boosts to enforcement and intelligence resourcing and expanding CPS capacity

    The Prime Minister is set to announce an additional £75 million to boost border security, bringing the investment in the Border Security Command over the next two years to £150 million. 

    Marking the first time the INTERPOL General Assembly has been hosted in the UK in over 50 years, Keir Starmer will today (4 November) open the Assembly in Glasgow by setting out his personal mission to smash the people smuggling gangs by resetting the UK’s whole approach to this challenge and intensifying international collaboration to meet the global scale of the threat.

    The General Assembly is INTERPOL’s supreme governing body and comprises senior ministerial and policing leads from the organisation’s 196 member states. 

    In his speech, the Prime Minister will set out his plans to draw on his experience of bringing together agencies to tackle international terrorist and drug smuggling gangs during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions to dismantle the people smuggling gangs who drive illegal migration, profit from human misery and represent a serious threat to global security. 

    He will also set out how the £150 million will provide additional specialist investigators and state of the art surveillance equipment to ensure those behind this criminal activity are stopped and brought to justice. 

    This major funding boost for the government’s new Border Security Command will initially be directed towards a range of enforcement and intelligence activity, including:

    • Investing heavily in NCA technology and capabilities, delivering advanced data exploitation and improvements to technologies to boost collaboration with European partners to investigate and break people smuggling networks.
    • 300 staff for the new Border Security Command, who will strengthen global partnerships, deliver new legislation and lead the system through investment and strategy.
    • 100 specialist investigators and intelligence officers for the NCA, dedicated to tackling criminals who facilitate people smuggling. 

    • Creating a new specialist OIC Intelligence Source Unit which will cohere intelligence flows from key police forces. 

    • Boosting the Crown Prosecution Service’s ability to deliver charging decisions more quickly on international organised crime cases. 

    The Border Security Command, led by Martin Hewitt CBE QPM, will be provided with enhanced powers – through a new Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill – to tackle organised immigration crime whilst providing for strong and effective border security. 

    New measures will make it easier to detect, disrupt and deter those seeking to engage in and benefit from organised immigration crime. The Command will also coordinate the work of intelligence agencies and law enforcement, who lead joint investigations with European counterparts to ensure we can bring those responsible to justice.

    Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to say:

    “The world needs to wake up to the severity of this challenge.  I was elected to deliver security for the British people. And strong borders are a part of that. But security doesn’t stop at our borders.  

    “There’s nothing progressive about turning a blind eye as men, women and children die in the Channel.

    “This is a vile trade that must be stamped out – wherever it thrives. So we’re taking our approach to counter-terrorism – which we know works, and applying it to the gangs, with our new Border Security Command. 

    “We’re ending the fragmentation between policing, Border Force and our intelligence agencies.”

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: 

    “Criminal smuggler gangs profit from undermining our border security and putting lives at risk and they have been getting away with it for far too long.

    “Our new Border Security Command, with the investment set out today, will mean a huge step change in the way we target these criminal gangs. People smugglers and traffickers operate in networks across borders, that’s why we have launched a major boost to our cooperation with international partners including other European countries, the G7 and Europol, and why we are so pleased to be hosting the INTERPOL conference on tackling international crime in Glasgow today.”

    The Prime Minister will also announce that the UK Government has increased its in-year support for INTERPOL’s global operations through a £6 million investment which harnesses the organisation’s unique capabilities to tackle serious organised crime affecting the UK. 

    Addressing the General Assembly, the Prime Minister will say that closer cooperation with international partners is key as he details how the gangs’ operations span from the money markets in Kabul through to the Kurdish region of Iraq and right across Europe and into the UK. 

    He will stress the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening security agreements to facilitate greater sharing of intelligence and more joint operational work, in particular through Europol. 

    The Home Office will also invest £24m in the new financial year to tackle international serious organised crime affecting the UK including drugs and firearms, fraud, trafficking and exploitation. Funds will in part be used to bolster work done by special prosecutors and operational partners in the Western Balkans.

    There were more than 5,000 drug related deaths in 2023, with most of the illegal drugs causing these coming from overseas or facilitated by transnational gangs. ISOC funding will also be used to tackle drug smuggling upstream and at the UK border, building on recent successes, such as the effective collaboration with the US and Ecuador, which has resulted in the seizure of 19 tonnes of cocaine.

    National Crime Agency Director General Graeme Biggar said:

    “Serious and organised crime causes more harm, to more people, more often than any other national security threat. And almost all of serious and organised crime now has an international nexus. Distance, borders and languages are meaningless to criminals. This is why collaborations with INTERPOL have never been as important as they are today.

    “Tackling organised crime, and especially immigration crime, remains a top priority for the NCA. We are currently leading around 70 investigations into the gangs or individuals involved in the highest echelons of this type of criminality, and we are devoting more resources to it than ever before.

    “We have built up our intelligence sharing effort with law enforcement partners across Europe and beyond, including having more NCA officers based overseas, sharing intelligence and working side by side on joint investigations. This approach is bringing operational results with arrests and prosecutions, but we are also we are seeking to disrupt the people smugglers’ business model, through targeting their social media offering, their supply routes for equipment, and their financial flows.

    “We are determined to do all we can to disrupt and dismantle these networks, wherever they operate.”

    The announcement comes just a month after Britain joined up to a new G7 anti migrant smuggling action plan which included pledges to bolster border security, combat transnational organised crime, and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation by smugglers. 

    The plan includes new, intelligence-led joint investigative actions to target criminal smuggling routes, working with social media platforms and internet providers to remove harmful content promoting illegal migration services or advertising fake job opportunities, and strengthening capabilities to monitor and anticipate irregular migration flows at both global and regional levels.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –