Call for Information – Aggravated assault – Lajamanu

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating reports of two aggravated robberies that are alleged to have occurred in Lajamanu.

Around 5:05pm yesterday, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) received a report from a 62-year-old female that two youths had attempted to carjack her vehicle and smashed the vehicle’s window.

The offenders then allegedly jumped into the vehicle, however, the victim dragged them out and drove to the local police station where she waited for police.

Police responded to the incident and found there were at least three youths involved in the offending. The victim did not sustain any injuries and returned to Darwin today.

About an hour later, the JESCC received a report a 57-year-old male victim had been assaulted by a group of up to six youths.

The victim told police he was outside his residence when a group of youths approached and demanded his keys.

One of the offenders was armed with an iron bar and allegedly used it to strike to the victim to his back.

The victim then locked himself in the house but left the keys in the outside lock, which were then stolen by the offenders.

The 57-year-old suffered minor back pain but did not require medical treatment. He was also visiting Lajamanu and chose to leave the area on Wednesday.

Investigators from Katherine Criminal Investigations Branch were deployed to Lajamanu along with members of Strike Force Cerberus.

Police recovered the allegedly stolen keys and have identified four youth suspects in relation to the offending.

Detective Acting Senior Sergeant David Van Der Merwe described the offending as “reckless” and “frightening” for the victims.

“These individuals were visiting Lajamanu for separate programs and leave with a bad experience of the community following two separate incidents which would have been traumatic to endure.

“The behaviour of the youths involved is deplorable. Visitors to the area deserve to feel safe and police will continue to work hard to ensure that they do.”

Investigations are ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact police on 1800 333 000.

TV interview – ABC News Breakfast

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

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Illicit drugs seized at Triabunna

Source: Tasmania Police

Illicit drugs seized at Triabunna

Wednesday, 10 June 2026 – 11:02 am.

Police investigating the importation of illicit drugs into Tasmania have made significant seizures during a targeted operation on the state’s East Coast.
Officers from East Coast Division conducted a search of a private residence at Triabunna on Friday, 5 June.
Police located a quantity of controlled drugs, including peptides and human growth hormones, that are illegal to possess or import.
Police also identified several firearms-related offences, including the seizure of a privately manufactured handgun capable of being operated.
As a result of the investigation, an 18-year-old Triabunna man will be issued with a summons to appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court at a later date.
Investigations are continuing.
Anyone with information relating to illegal firearms or illicit substances is urged to contact Tasmania Police on 131 444 or provide information anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

Call for Information – Aggravated Robbery – Casuarina

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Casuarina on Monday.

Around 1:55am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report that a male had been robbed at knifepoint at the end of Casuarina Beach Service Road.

The victim had been riding his E-scooter when he pulled over near the access point of Trower Road to use his mobile phone.

While using his phone, he was allegedly suddenly struck to the face by a male who then threatened him with a knife before demanding the victim’s phone and passcode.

The victim complied and the offender fled the scene on foot toward the Nightcliff foreshore, along with another male who accompanied him.

The offender has been described to be of Aboriginal appearance and appearing to be aged between 18 and 25. He was seen wearing a black Nike shirt with a white vertical line, black shorts and black sneakers.

The male with him was described to be of Aboriginal appearance and was wearing black clothing.

The offenders remain outstanding and police are calling for information from the public including footage that may assist in investigating the incident.

Anyone with information is urged to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P26163215. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

Fugitive arrested following five-day operation

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

A 44-year-old man who escaped lawful custody last week is due to appear in Darwin Local Court today after being recaptured following a five-day police operation.

The man, a member of the Mongols Outlaw Motorcycle Gang, had been before the courts following a Gangs Taskforce investigation for alleged large-scale drug supply across Darwin and East Arnhem Land, as well as serious firearm offences.

Police allege a search warrants on properties connected with the man, uncovered a .22 calibre semi-automatic pistol, cocaine and heroin.

He was arrested at the scene and charged as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged supply of commercial quantities of methamphetamine in Darwin and commercial quantities of cannabis in East Arnhem Land on behalf of the Mongols Outlaw Motorcycle Gang. Police allege the offending occurred following his release from prison in September 2025.

The man escaped from G4S custody at the Darwin courthouse on Friday, triggering a multi-unit manhunt involving Fugitive Taskforce, Gang Taskforce, Strike Force Trident and the Dog Operations Unit.

Over the following days, police conducted inquiries, searched multiple locations and targeted known associates believed to be assisting the fugitive. Those efforts resulted in seven arrests, including a 26-year-old man who has since been charged with aiding and abetting.

Yesterday afternoon, information received by police led officers to Durack, where the man was sighted. Upon seeing police, he allegedly fled on foot towards nearby bushland along Chung Wah Terrace in Palmerston.

Police Patrol Dog Cheeko and his handler tracked the man through the area before he was apprehended and arrested with assistance from Strike Force Trident members.

At the time of his arrest, police allege the man was in possession of a traffickable quantity of methamphetamine, a butterfly knife and cash.

He has since been charged with additional offences, including escaping lawful custody, possessing a prohibited drug and possessing a prohibited weapon.

Detective Sergeant Kenneth Bradshaw acknowledged the determination of the officers involved in the operation.

“This has been a significant effort by police, who have worked around the clock to locate this offender,” Detective Sergeant Bradshaw said.

“He was actively avoiding police and receiving assistance while on the run, but our members remained relentless in their pursuit.

“This man had no place on our streets. I want to acknowledge the outstanding work of all officers involved and thank members of the community who provided information and support throughout the investigation.”

Media note: Body worn video is available upon request. 

CFA recognised for pivotal community engagement platform

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

CFA Manager Community Engagement & Program Development Paul Harris accepting award

CFA has been recognised for its statewide volunteer-led community preparedness communication platform, the Mobile Engagement Unit (MEU), that helps Victorians prepare for bushfire risk.

CFA proudly received the Excellence in Community Engagement Award at the Emergency Media and Public Affairs (EMPA) Conference on Wednesday 27 May in Brisbane for the impressive MEUs that are strategically placed around Victoria.  

Additionally, CFA was acknowledged as the People’s Choice Award winner by the 130 conference delegates, following a passionate presentation that showcased the impact and value of the MEUs in the Victorian community.

The cost-effective, versatile, quick to deploy minivan has been custom designed and built by volunteers – for volunteer use. They are powered by solar, equipped with a large in-built TV screen, and fitted with trestle tables, drawers, a fridge and charging capabilities to ensure fire safety education, recruitment and community preparedness can be delivered.

The mobility of the vehicle means volunteers can quickly reach remote communities to engage with residents, form stronger connections, share knowledge and promote preparedness.

CFA Manager Community Engagement & Program Development Paul Harris said Victorian bushfire prone communities are often the hardest to reach, so CFA sought to change that.

“Remote communities most at risk of bushfires have no infrastructure, no meeting spaces, often no power or signal and have very little access to trusted information when they need it most,” Paul said.

“That was a problem we wanted to solve, so we changed the way we communicated.

“The MEU isn’t just a vehicle; it is a structural shift in how emergency communication is delivered. We’re not just delivering information, we’re enabling conversations.

“They allow us to reach both travellers and visitors, connect dispersed communities face to face and provide incident information when it matters most. Plus, educate on a broad range of subjects to mitigate and prevent bushfire impact – such as how to create a bushfire plan or emergency kit.

“We can provide live mapping, VicEmergency App support, digital access, independent communications when networks are down and support during response and recovery.”

Eight MEUs operated by local brigade’s travel across Victoria taking trusted information directly to communities, and are formally based in Ararat, Bendigo, Shepparton, Diamond Creek, Sale, Dandenong, Geelong and Hamilton.

Between 2022 and 2025, the MEUs travelled 771 times, interacting with more than 70,900 community members across coastal, rural, peri-urban, alpine and forested areas – including key tourism corridors.

The multi-coloured, vibrant exterior has been designed to standout when based in a local town. 

“During the Grampians fires of 2024-2025, we parked an MEU in the popular rural town of Dadswell’s Bridge to support travellers moving through a potential impact corridor,” Paul said.

“There were many anxious people and tourists passing through, but they were able to charge their phones, check maps, speak directly with CFA members and gain reassurance in real time.

“The vehicle became a place to get information, to ask questions and to feel supported.

Paul said these achievements would not have been possible without the commitment of CFA’s Community Engagement Coordinators and volunteers across the state.

“Our CFA members and community engagement staff continue to make the MEU’s an integral part of our service delivery and community preparedness efforts,” Paul said.

“Acknowledgement must also go to Project Manager Craig Hearson for his outstanding contribution, leading the design and consultation process with regional stakeholders to ensure the development and implementation of the MEUs met the needs of both volunteers and communities.

“Our fleet team played a pivotal role in expertly managing the fabrication and customisation of the MEUs.”

Submitted by CFA media

Successful planned burn at Skipton

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

A successful planned burn has been carried out at Skipton following years of planning to reduce bushfire risk to the township.

Skipton Common, an approximately 100-hectare reserve, has long been a concern for the local community due to its proximity to Skipton and the potential risk it poses during bushfire conditions. 

CFA Acting Vegetation Management Officer (West Region) Matthew Keller said the burn followed extensive work to develop a long-term approach to bushfire mitigation.  

“The Common had been identified as a concern for some time, but following the Streatham fire there was renewed community interest in finding a long-term solution to help reduce risk to the township,” Matthew said. 

Representatives from the Western Region Ecological Network (WREN), Skipton Fire Brigade, Beaufort Group, CFA’s Vegetation Management Team and local Landcare groups formed a committee to develop a shared management approach. 

The group met regularly to discuss treatment options, priorities and how to balance fire risk reduction with environmental considerations. 

“This wasn’t a one-off burn. The group developed a three-year management plan to guide future treatment across the reserve, including annual maintenance around the township boundary,” Matthew said. 

After monitoring weather forecasts and undertaking further planning, crews identified a suitable opportunity to complete the planned burn on 27 April. 

Matthew said the intricacies of the burn required careful planning. 

“A lot of planning went into this burn because the area sits close to homes and private assets, so we had to wait for the right conditions to manage fire behaviour and keep smoke away from the township and highway,” Matthew said. 

“Planned burning is not about burning for the sake of it. Every burn starts with a clear objective, whether that’s protecting homes, farms, roads, critical infrastructure or environmental values.” 

Matthew said the burn formed part of an ongoing effort to reduce fuel loads and improve community safety around Skipton. 

“The burn reduces the overall fuel hazard, which can reduce fire intensity and give firefighters the upper hand if a bushfire approaches the town,” Matthew said.   

CFA Acting Deputy Chief Officer (West Region) Steve Alcock said planned burns are an important part of bushfire preparedness. 

“We know we can’t stop every fire, but fuel management is one of the most important tools we have to reduce the impact fires can have on communities,” Steve said. 

“The burn at Skipton Common is a good example of local agencies, land managers and the community working together to address a long-standing fire risk.” 

CFA has exceeded its planned burn targets across the state in the last two years.

Submitted by CFA Media

It’s official – Western Sydney to open to passengers on 25 October and freight on 26 July 2026

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

fter 15 years of planning, seven years of construction and a year of testing; Western Sydney International Airport will welcome its first passengers on 25 October 2026.

Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) is Australia’s brand-new full-service airport operating curfew-free to deliver international, domestic and freight services.

With Western Sydney now Australia’s third-largest economy and home to half of the city’s population, the new airport will serve up to 10 million passengers annually, with scalable expansion to meet future demand.

Jetstar will operate the airport’s first ever commercial passenger flight, with an Airbus A320 set to take off from WSI to the Gold Coast at 11am on Sunday 25 October.

From launch, Jetstar will operate up to 14 flights a week between WSI and Melbourne; four weekly flights to the Gold Coast and three weekly flights to Brisbane.

Qantas will commence services from WSI from 28 March 2027, operating four flights per week to Brisbane and four flights per week to Melbourne, using QantasLink Embraer E190 aircraft.

Freight operations will commence earlier on Sunday 26 July, and Qantas Freight will begin regular flights to and from WSI the following evening.

These regular flights were secured by the Albanese Government in June 2023, as Qantas and Jetstar became the first airlines to announce they would fly in and out of Sydney’s new airport.

They will be joined by Air New Zealand, who will commence flights to Auckland on 26 October and Singapore Airlines, whose daily flights to Changi start on 23 November 2026.

Western Sydney’s new 24-hour airport is the centrepiece of the Albanese Labor Government’s near $18 billion investment in Western Sydney, including the future Sydney Metro Airport rail connection and significant road upgrades to nearby Elizabeth Drive, Fifteenth Avenue and Mamre Road. This investment builds upon benefits already delivered through the recent opening of the M12 Motorway.

The entire WSI project has created over 12,800 jobs, with around half of those jobs going to local workers.

More than $500 million has also flowed to more than 360 Western Sydney based businesses during major construction works at WSI, including local tradies and construction companies, caterers, and security guards.

WSI will begin freight operations in July, however, in line with the Sydney Airport Curfew Act 1995, 1 November 2026 has been determined as the intended gazettal date for WSI to be open for night aircraft movements. This will have the effect of ceasing currently permitted freight flights from taking off or landing at Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport during the overnight curfew period. Exceptions will continue to be made for emergencies or where there is special dispensation.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“In 2011, I commissioned a joint study with the NSW Government into how we’d deliver a second airport. I said at the time, it wasn’t ‘a matter of if Sydney needed a new airport, but when.’

“15 years later, this new airport is almost ready to open.

“I want to thank the tens of thousands of people who over the years planned, built and are now testing Western Sydney International Airport and the surrounding infrastructure right here in Western Sydney.”

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King

“This is a big moment for Sydney, with passenger flights at Western Sydney Airport commencing in just 137 days.

“With the new Nancy-Bird Walton Terminal, and brand-new cargo and business precincts readying to open, this won’t just be the centre of travel in Western Sydney, but also jobs.”

Quote attributable to the Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland

“With the opening date now set, Western Sydney is one step closer to having our own gateway to the world, creating jobs and unlocking new opportunities for our region.”

Quote attributable to the Member for McMahon, Chris Bowen

“Western Sydney’s gateway to the world is opening soon, and it will open ready to support Sustainable Aviation Fuel. Cleaner, greener fuel that we can grow, and soon, produce here.”

Quote attributable to the Member for Werriwa, Anne Stanley

“The Albanese Government isn’t just delivering Western Sydney’s new airport, but also the infrastructure upgrades it needs as well. Welcome projects for a growing community.”

Quote attributable to the Member for Macarthur, Mike Freelander

“This project is a tremendous boost for South West Sydney and will deliver economic and transport opportunities for workers and travellers alike. I am thankful to those involved in this project, including my son who worked on it, and I can’t wait to see it in action!”

Quote attributable to Member for Banks, Zhi Soon

“For communities right across Sydney, this is a really exciting moment. After years of planning and construction, Western Sydney International is about to open its doors, creating jobs, boosting our economy and connecting Sydney to the world in new ways.”

Quote attributable to Member for Hughes, David Moncrieff

“Western Sydney Airport will be a game-changer for the southwestern Sydney economy. This project will deliver jobs and business opportunities for residents and small businesses across the Macarthur region and Liverpool area.”

Firearms, drugs and weapons seized during Territory-wide compliance activities

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Northern Territory Police have seized firearms, drugs and prohibited weapons during Firearms Audit and Enforcement (FAE) compliance activities conducted across the Territory throughout May 2026.

During the month, FAE members carried out 11 random inspections of licensed firearms storage facilities and executed 11 targeted search warrants.

As a result, police seized 124 firearms, two unlawfully manufactured firearms, ammunition and a range of prohibited weapons.

Of the 11 compliance inspections conducted, offences were detected in eight cases. Three people were arrested, while five others were issued Notices to Appear. Police also issued five infringement notices for minor offences and suspended or revoked 21 firearms licences.

Many of the offences involved failures to properly secure firearms and ammunition. Police also identified a concerning trend of firearms being stored in a loaded condition.

Several inspections also uncovered evidence of other criminal activity, leading to further police action.

Items seized included:

  • Cannabis plants being grown in hydroponic setups
  • Traffickable and personal quantities of cannabis
  • Methamphetamine
  • Drug-related paraphernalia

Offenders will face a range of charges, including:

  • Failing to meet firearms storage requirements
  • Breaching firearms licence conditions
  • Unlawfully altering firearms
  • Possessing dangerous drugs
  • Cultivating cannabis plants
  • Possessing prohibited weapons

Superintendent Ian Kennon said the results highlight the risks associated with firearms non-compliance.

“The majority of offences we are detecting involve firearms licence holders failing to properly secure their firearms and ammunition,” Superintendent Kennon said.

“Unsecured firearms can be stolen and end up in the hands of criminals or children, with potentially tragic consequences.

“We are also increasingly finding firearms stored in a loaded condition. This is extremely dangerous and puts the community at risk.”

Superintendent Kennon said compliance inspections frequently uncover offending beyond firearms-related breaches.

“When police attend properties to conduct inspections, we regularly identify other criminal activity, including drug offences.

“This reinforces the value of the proactive work being undertaken by our members.”

Police will continue both planned and unannounced compliance inspections across the Northern Territory.

“Firearms licence holders must comply with their legal obligations at all times,” Superintendent Kennon said.

“If you fail to meet storage requirements or breach your licence conditions, enforcement action will be taken, including possible court action and the loss of your firearms licence.”

Anyone with information about illegal firearms or suspicious activity is urged to contact police on 131 444 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Fugitive Taskforce continues search for escaped prisoner

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

*As this matter is now before the courts, this media release has been amended since its original publication.*

The Northern Territory Police Fugitive Taskforce continues to intensify efforts to locate and arrest fugitive 44-year-old man, who escaped lawful custody at Darwin Local Court on Friday after jumping the dock and fleeing on foot.

Following the escape, Fugitive Taskforce and other police sections have conducted an extensive search across Darwin, tracking the man to multiple locations where he is believed to have actively evaded police with the assistance of known associates.

Throughout the weekend, the Fugitive Taskforce maintained pressure on the man and his support network. Police believe he remains within the Greater Darwin region and investigations are ongoing.

To date, seven people have been arrested during the operation for outstanding warrants, breach of bail and drug related offences. One woman, aged 25, remains in custody under investigation for assisting the fugitive.

Detective Sergeant Tim Healey said police remain determined to bring him back into custody.

“Information provided by members of the public has enabled investigators to continue following every lead, and we will find the man,” Sergeant Healey said.

“We are warning anyone who is assisting him to evade police to stop immediately. If you choose to help him avoid arrest, you can expect to be identified, investigated and prosecuted.”

He is described as a Caucasian male, approximately 185cm tall, of medium build, with long brown hair and a short beard. Police believe he may have made attempts to change his appearance, cutting his hair shorter.

He has a tattoo on his left wrist and was last seen wearing a dark-coloured T-shirt.

Members of the public are urged not to approach him. If he is sighted, contact police immediately on 000.

Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact police or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Media note: Available CCTV footage can be requested via pfes.media@pfes.nt.gov.au