Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Green Party

The Green Party is claiming a win for animals, following the Luxon Government’s confirmation that they have cancelled plans to reinstate the live export of animals at sea.

Plans to resume the trade in live animals by sea was part of the National and Act coalition agreement, however the frequently endorsed intention has been scrapped at cabinet, according to Animal Welfare Minister Andrew Hoggard, who said “we needed to get everyone on board to take it forward and haven’t achieved that.”

“The Greens have long opposed this fundamentally cruel trade.” Says Steve Abel, Green Party spokesperson for Animal Welfare.

“Animals are herded into miserable cattle ships where they are forced to wallow in their own waste for weeks at sea.”

“Exported animals also face disease, heat stress, bruising, motion sickness, and other conditions that cause fear, anxiety, and discomfort for weeks or even months.”

“New Zealanders don’t want to see animals suffering. The plans to reinstate this cruel trade cut against the grain of our values as a nation,” says Abel.

“It’s clear that reality has caught up with the Luxon Coalition. They’ve realised there is no magical ‘gold standard’ for live animal exports. The practice is fundamentally cruel, despite industry spin.”

“The decision to cancel the animal export plans is a great win for animal welfare advocates and the majority of New Zealanders, including many farmers, who opposed the cruel trade.”

With the ban on the live exports of animals at sea saved, the Greens would extend the ban to include the live export of animals by air, such as chicks, and the export of native wild-caught animals such as endangered longfin eels.

Source: New Zealand Police

Media are advised that Police have now identified the people sought in images from a releas this afternoon about an aggravated robbery in Castlecliff, Whanganui.

We would ask media to therefore please now remove these photos from any reporting.

Enquiries into the robbery are ongoing.

ENDS

Source: New Zealand Police

New Zealand Police have targeted Comanchero members and associates as part of coordinated enforcement activity across Australasia targeting the gang’s criminal operations.

Three men have been arrested, with items seized including an AR-15 rifle, cash and methamphetamine.

Taskforce Morpheus is a working group of law enforcement agencies across Australia and New Zealand that focus on the targeting and disruption of illegal activity by organised criminal groups.

Last week, the National Day of Action targeted the Comanchero Motorcycle Club, and saw nine Police districts carry out enforcement activity, supported by the National Organised Crime Group and the National Gang Unit.

Police charged three men who are members or associates of the gang and laid 14 charges for drugs and firearms offending.

In Tokoroa, Bay of Plenty staff searched three addresses with the assistance of the Armed Offenders Squad.

Five firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, were recovered along with cannabis and a kilogram of a substance believed to be methamphetamine.

Two men, aged 36 and 39, were arrested without incident during the warrants.

Around the country, Police also worked with the Department of Corrections given the number of members currently in custody.

Director of the National Organised Crime Group, Detective Superintendent Greg Williams says the Comancheros remain of interest to law enforcement agencies.

“This gang is seen as one of the top organised crime groups in both Australia and New Zealand for their involvement in the importation and distribution of cocaine, methamphetamine and other illegal drugs,” he says.

“They remain a focus for us, and through our investigative work we continue to find their members and associates involved in a large number of importations, alongside their propension for committing serious violence to maintain control over the market.”

Police continue to work with law enforcement agencies in New Zealand and abroad to combat the Comanchero’s influence globally.

“We are focused on taking their influence out of New Zealand, and we have had many successes since the gang established operations here through Operations Nova and Embargo,” Detective Superintendent Williams says.

“Nearly all of the gang’s members and associates have been prosecuted, and this includes its entire senior leadership team that are all facing serious charges.”

Director Prisoners of Extreme Risk Directorate, Jeanette Burns says a large number of cells were searched across six prisons in New Zealand.

“Across those prisons a large amount of tobacco was located, alongside quantities of suspected illicit drugs,” says Jeanette.

“Some prisoners go to extreme and elaborate lengths to continue offending from prison. Our staff work hard to stop contraband entering our prisons, and when we do find it we take this extremely seriously.

“Corrections does not tolerate any criminal behaviour in our prisons, and we continue to work with our partners to stamp out this offending and the harm it causes to our communities.”

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Police

Emergency services are in attendance at a serious crash in Mauku, west of Pukekohe.

The crash, reported at 3.22pm, occurred on Titi Road and involves a pedestrian and truck.

Initial information is that the pedestrian has been critically injured. 

Titi Road is currently closed while emergency services attend the scene.

Both the Serious Crash Unit and Commercial Vehicle Safety Team have been advised, and will attend the incident.

A further update will be provided when available.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Police

Police can now confirm a third person has been charged with murder as part of an ongoing homicide investigation, following the death of a courier driver in Pakuranga Heights in 2024.

Operation Block commenced on 19 August 2024 to investigate the murder of 59-year-old Tuipulotu Vi on Marvon Downs Avenue.

Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers, of Counties Manukau CIB, says a murder charged has been filed against a 26-year-old man.

“The man is currently in custody in the United States for offences committed in that country and is now subject to an extradition process.

“We are working with the relevant authorities  in relation to this.

“This is the third person charged over to Mr Vi’s death and our investigation remains ongoing.”

As the matter is before the Court, Police are limited in providing further information.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Government

Customs and Associate Police Minister Casey Costello will travel to Europe tomorrow to represent New Zealand at the Global Fraud Summit and for a series of bilateral meetings. 

The inaugural Summit was held in London in 2024 and this, second version is being hosted by INTERPOL and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime in Vienna.

“In New Zealand, as with many similar countries, fraud and deception offending has become the most prevalent crime and it causes not only significant financial loss for victims but a loss of trust in business and institutions,” Ms Costello said. 

“Much of this type of offending originates from overseas groups that target multiple countries in their operation, and we know there are strong links between international organised crime, transnational fraud, and money laundering. 

“International co-operation is needed to address these crimes and it’s important to engage with partners and international law enforcement agencies around these issues.”

The Minister will be attending specific sessions on Southeast Asia and the Pacific.  

Following the Summit, the Minister will travel to Geneva to meet with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the Red Cross and Red Crescent and to London for meetings across her Customs, Police and Health responsibilities.

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Acting Detective Sergeant Emma Wiltshire – Hawke’s Bay CIB: 

Police are appealing for information following an assault in Meeanee, Napier, last week.

On Friday 6 March, Police received a report of an assault that occurred just before 7.30am, on the Limestone Track, between Ulyatt Road and Riverbend Road.

Thankfully, the victim was able to get to safety uninjured, however they are understandably very shaken by the incident.

Police have conducted initial enquiries but have been unable to locate the offender and are now asking for the public’s help.

Police are looking for a man described to be in his late 40s, Caucasian with bright blue eyes. He has short black spikey hair, shorter on the sides than on top, and short dark grey facial hair that covered his cheeks, moustache, and chin area.

He is skinny to average build and approximately 6ft/182cm tall. He was reported to be wearing a black trenchcoat, a dark grey scarf, black pants, and black leather-type shoes. The trenchcoat had buttons down the front and deep pockets on the side.

If you have seen this man, witnessed this incident, or have any information about who he is or his whereabouts, please contact Police. We also want to speak with the owner of a white ute [pictured] that was nearby when this assault took place.

Additionally, if you have CCTV or dashcam footage of the Ulyatt Road and Riverbend Road areas, between 7am and 8am on Friday 6 March, please get in touch so that we may review that footage.

Information can be provided through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260307/3213.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Government

Racing Minister, Winston Peters has welcomed proposed plans to rehome greyhounds, as the transition away from greyhound racing continues. 

“The intention was always to support the industry as it transitions away from greyhound racing,” says Mr Peters.

“There has been a campaign of misinformation about greyhounds and owners being left to fend for themselves, but this was never the case.

“It was important to go through a proper select committee process before taking the next steps.

“The Select Committee has now completed its work and reported back. Everyone, including representatives of the greyhound racing sector, rehoming groups, and members of the public, have had the opportunity to have their say.”

The Ministerial Advisory Committee, established to plan the transition away from greyhound racing, set out key elements of their plan as part of the recent select committee process. This includes:

The setting up of a transition agency to manage the end of greyhound racing.
Options for the agency to take over ownership of dogs and pay for all their food and care until they are successfully re-homed.
Mental health and wellbeing services for those whose daily lives are closely tied to the industry.
Re-training support for those currently employed in the industry.
Training and behavioral support for greyhounds to improve rehoming outcomes.
Working with animal welfare organisations, including groups such as SPCA, to support the rehoming process.

“We’re ready for a smooth transition, with planning focused on certainty, support, and, most importantly, ensuring the welfare of greyhounds.” says Mr Peters.

“This is a deliberate, multi‑stage process designed to ensure fairness and good outcomes for both people and animals. Nothing changes overnight, and the Government’s focus remains on a smooth and responsible transition.

Transition planning will continue over the coming months, informed by the feedback from the select committee and ongoing work by the Ministerial Advisory Committee.

This work follows the announcement in late 2024 to end greyhound racing in New Zealand. Reviews across several years (2013, 2017 and 2021) consistently raised the need for change to address serious animal welfare concerns. 

Polls show the large majority of the public support an end to greyhound racing.

Source: Auckland Council

A new top-of-the-line karting facility at Colin Dale Park in the city’s south is open for Aucklanders to use thanks to support from Auckland Council.

In late February, Councillor Ali Filipaina and council staff were among those who marked the new facility at Wiri with a blessing of Sir Colin Giltrap Raceway and the dedication of the Bob Cunningham straight and Crang Corner.

In 2024 the Colin Dale Park KartSport Development Charitable Trust was allocated $2.5 million by the council’s Planning, Environment and Parks Committee, through the Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund.

Councillor Filipaina, who represents the Manukau Ward, says the karting facility is an important community asset not just for south Auckland, but for the whole region.

“I’m thrilled the Colin Dale Park facility is up and running. It’s a fantastic piece of sports infrastructure for the community.

“The new racetrack has come as New Zealand’s motorsport stars – the likes of Scott Dixon and Liam Lawson, are flourishing on the international stage.

“We hope Kiwi kids from all walks of life use and enjoy the facility.”

“Auckland Council is proud to have supported making this happen with significant funding through our grants scheme.”

The Sir Colin Giltrap Raceway can be used for leisure and competition for multiple wheel sport activities, including karting.

Anita Kinsman, Chair of the Colin Dale Park KartSport Development Charitable Trust, thanked the council for the funding contribution, at the opening ceremony prior to the first race day event.

“We’d like to extend our thanks to Auckland Council for their substantial contribution to this facility.

“The $2.5 million grant through the Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund was essential in getting the raceway up and running for Aucklanders to use now and long into the future.”

Martin Devoy, the council’s Regional Sport and Recreation Investment Lead has been involved with the development of Colin Dale Park for a number of years and says he recognises the value of the facility. 

“It has been a pleasure working with the KartSport trustees and representatives. Their professionalism, dedication and generosity have resulted in an outstanding community facility.” 

Aliimalemanu Kenneth Aiolupotea, Auckland Council’s General Manager Community Wellbeing says he’s thrilled the facility is up and running for Aucklanders to use.

“A key aim of the Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund is to create opportunities for Aucklanders to get active.

“Colin Dale Park is a standout example of the importance that non-council facilities play within the sport and recreation sector.” 

More information on the council’s grants programme that supports Aucklanders’ aspirations for a great city, including the Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund can be found on the Auckland Council website.

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Nadine Staples, Whanganui CIB:

Police have arrested and charged three people in relation to an aggravated robbery in Castlecliff, Whanganui.

On Wednesday 4 March, around 6.10pm, Police were called with a report of an aggravated robbery that had occurred at a premises on Polson Street.

It is alleged that the offenders entered the premises and stole a number of cigarettes and bottles of alcohol, before fleeing the scene on a quad bike which has now been located.

Police previously arrested one youth in relation to the incident. Two more men, both 18, are now due in Whanganui District Court. One on 31 March charged with aggravated robbery.

The other on 16 April, charged with unlawful possession of ammunition/firearm, cannabis possession and receiving stolen property.

Enquiries remain ongoing and Police are not ruling out further arrests or charges.

Police are asking for anyone who has information about the incident, or who recognises the people in these images, to please get in touch.

You can provide information through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260304/4451 – or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre