Latest news with #KarenWebb
Perth Now
3 days ago
- Politics
- Perth Now
Pro-Palestine protesters plan first-ever march across Sydney Harbour Bridge
Pro-Palestine protesters will march across Sydney Harbour Bridge for the first time in nearly two years of rallies, setting the stage for a potential confrontation with police. In a statement, the Palestine Action Group said on Sunday it had filed a Form 1 notifying NSW Police of the 'March for Humanity' set to take place at 1pm on August 3. The group called on NSW authorities to 'facilitate' the march, which is in response to the 'extraordinary situation' in Gaza, including mass civilian starvation. 'As Australia's most iconic symbol, a mass march across the Harbour Bridge will send a powerful message to the world,' the Palestine Action Group said. That message, the group said, would be to 'Gaza, to Israel, and to our own government, that we are determined to stand up for humanity'. Camera Icon Pro-Palestine protestors have rallied almost weekly since October 7, 2023. NewsWire / Flavio Brancaleone Credit: News Corp Australia The protest is likely to face stiff opposition, with then-NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb previously applying to the Supreme Court to stop a pro-Palestine event. The vigil, held on the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks, was ultimately given the green light after a court hearing and 11th-hour discussions with protesters. In NSW, protesters do not need formal approval from police to hold a legal rally following the filing of a Form 1 – but police can oppose it through the court system. The Harbour Bridge is a major thoroughfare in Sydney, but has been closed several times in recent years, including for the filming of the movie Fall Guy. The bridge was also shuttered in 2023 for a World Pride Month march attended by Anthony Albanese. Camera Icon Sydney Harbour Bridge has been the site of several protests. NewsWire / Damian Shaw Credit: News Corp Australia In 2000, the bridge was the site of the Walk For Reconciliation, a rally showing support for Indigenous and non-Indigenous reconciliation attended by 250,000 people. 'It can certainly be closed to stop a genocide,'organisers said. The Palestine Action Group said protesters planned on meeting at Lang Park, near Wynyard station, at 1pm before marching to the bridge. The event marks almost two years of protests following Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel and the subsequent war on Gaza. Last week, the Prime Minister accused Israel of 'clearly' breaching international law, but fell short of joining ally France in recognising a Palestinian state. NSW Police has been contacted for comment.
West Australian
3 days ago
- Politics
- West Australian
Pro-Palestine protesters plan first-ever march across Sydney Harbour Bridge
Pro-Palestine protesters will march across Sydney Harbour Bridge for the first time in nearly two years of rallies, setting the stage for a potential confrontation with police. In a statement, the Palestine Action Group said on Sunday it had filed a Form 1 notifying NSW Police of the 'March for Humanity' set to take place at 1pm on August 3. The group called on NSW authorities to 'facilitate' the march, which is in response to the 'extraordinary situation' in Gaza, including mass civilian starvation. 'As Australia's most iconic symbol, a mass march across the Harbour Bridge will send a powerful message to the world,' the Palestine Action Group said. That message, the group said, would be to 'Gaza, to Israel, and to our own government, that we are determined to stand up for humanity'. The protest is likely to face stiff opposition, with then-NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb previously applying to the Supreme Court to stop a pro-Palestine event. The vigil, held on the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks, was ultimately given the green light after a court hearing and 11th-hour discussions with protesters. In NSW, protesters do not need formal approval from police to hold a legal rally following the filing of a Form 1 – but police can oppose it through the court system. The Harbour Bridge is a major thoroughfare in Sydney, but has been closed several times in recent years, including for the filming of the movie Fall Guy. The bridge was also shuttered in 2023 for a World Pride Month march attended by Anthony Albanese. In 2000, the bridge was the site of the Walk For Reconciliation, a rally showing support for Indigenous and non-Indigenous reconciliation attended by 250,000 people. 'It can certainly be closed to stop a genocide,'organisers said. The Palestine Action Group said protesters planned on meeting at Lang Park, near Wynyard station, at 1pm before marching to the bridge. The event marks almost two years of protests following Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel and the subsequent war on Gaza. Last week, the Prime Minister accused Israel of 'clearly' breaching international law, but fell short of joining ally France in recognising a Palestinian state. NSW Police has been contacted for comment.
News.com.au
3 days ago
- Politics
- News.com.au
Pro-Palestine protesters plan first-ever march across Sydney Harbour Bridge
Pro-Palestine protesters will march across Sydney Harbour Bridge for the first time in nearly two years of rallies, setting the stage for a potential confrontation with police. In a statement, the Palestine Action Group said on Sunday it had filed a Form 1 notifying NSW Police of the 'March for Humanity' set to take place at 1pm on August 3. The group called on NSW authorities to 'facilitate' the march, which is in response to the 'extraordinary situation' in Gaza, including mass civilian starvation. 'As Australia's most iconic symbol, a mass march across the Harbour Bridge will send a powerful message to the world,' the Palestine Action Group said. That message, the group said, would be to 'Gaza, to Israel, and to our own government, that we are determined to stand up for humanity'. The protest is likely to face stiff opposition, with then-NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb previously applying to the Supreme Court to stop a pro-Palestine event. The vigil, held on the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks, was ultimately given the green light after a court hearing and 11th-hour discussions with protesters. In NSW, protesters do not need formal approval from police to hold a legal rally following the filing of a Form 1 – but police can oppose it through the court system. The Harbour Bridge is a major thoroughfare in Sydney, but has been closed several times in recent years, including for the filming of the movie Fall Guy. The bridge was also shuttered in 2023 for a World Pride Month march attended by Anthony Albanese. In 2000, the bridge was the site of the Walk For Reconciliation, a rally showing support for Indigenous and non-Indigenous reconciliation attended by 250,000 people. 'It can certainly be closed to stop a genocide,'organisers said. The Palestine Action Group said protesters planned on meeting at Lang Park, near Wynyard station, at 1pm before marching to the bridge. The event marks almost two years of protests following Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel and the subsequent war on Gaza. Last week, the Prime Minister accused Israel of 'clearly' breaching international law, but fell short of joining ally France in recognising a Palestinian state.
News.com.au
5 days ago
- Politics
- News.com.au
Surprising candidate in running for top police job
It's crunch time for the six candidates vying for a role many consider a 'poisoned chalice' – the NSW Police Commissioner. Interviews wrapped up this week and time will soon tell whether Premier Chris Minns has opted for a 'clean skin, dependable safe bet' to calm the storm after the force's turbulent recent history. In the running are hot favourite Mal Lanyon, as well as the current acting commissioner Peter Thurtell, Deputy Commissioner Paul Pisanos, former deputy Mick Willing and two assistant commissioners Peter Cotter and wildcard Rod Smith. The role has brought with it in recent years intense public scrutiny and relentless media attention, and the ever-present threat of misconduct scandals or mishandled critical incidents have created a perception that the job is exceptionally difficult and carries considerable reputational risk. Insiders have told the very dependable and well respected Mr Thurtell has excelled in the role since he took over from the state's first female Commissioner Karen Webb, and Mr Minns would be 'wise' to let him continue to 'steady the ship'. 'Thurtell has got a taste of the top job and knows he can do it,' one senior-placed NSW police officer said. 'Nothing negative has happened under his watch. Every major incident he has taken the lead, not waited or passed it on. 'If there is a critical incident the region commander has to take control but anything he should be in the public eye for, he has been and he's smashed it.' Mr Thurtell has appeared on television as part of a panel discussion on domestic violence and appeared in press conferences when issues arise. He's impressed the troops on the ground with his humble approach. 'He's been a region commander, he's got his battle scars, he has had everything thrown at him and he comes out with flying colours. You can't put him on the hop, if you try to trip him up you can't. 'And what's important is that those who know him absolutely trust him.' While Mr Thurtell might be popular among the troops, most believe Mr Lanyon is the Premier's favourite and a 'shoe in' for the job. 'He's been biding his time, networking with politicians and he's ready for his comeback,' one source said. Mr Lanyon has a long career in the police force, including heading the state crime command, and has been involved in disaster response and recovery, including leading flood recovery efforts in the Northern Rivers region in 2022. He missed out on the top job last time round – many say because of a night in February 2021 where he was found intoxicated, laying on the ground in Gouldburn by ambulance officers who later described him as argumentative and agitated. Mr Lanyon acknowledged his behaviour and sought to apologise personally. While he was publicly hauled over the coals for the incident he has since found new support in politicians and police alike, with many still saying 'he's the best one for the job'. 'You'd think the government might be worried though about the Merino incident coming up over and over again. The force has copped so much bad publicity, but a lot of cops think Mal knows what he's doing, is the most qualified, most media savvy and the best one for the job so I most think the Premier will back him and hope people have short memories.' Mr Lanyon will again go head to head with former sparring partner and fellow deputy Mr Willing. Both lost out to Ms Webb when Premier Dom Perrotet appointed her the state's first female commissioner. Mr Willing says he is an even better candidate today than he was three years ago, and believes he is the best fit to refocus the culture of the NSW Police Force. After being sacked by Ms Webb shortly after she took office, Mr Willing fought his own demons thanks to the sudden loss of identity but found a new purpose as head of Fortem Australia, a non-for-profit organisation devoted to helping first responders and their families. Police welfare is likely to be his key platform. Attracting fewer headlines than the other deputies is Mr Pisanos, best known for his work in regional youth crime. He's travelled the state building rapport with troops on the ground in remote country towns, community elders and kids themselves. He's passionate about steering them away from a life of crime and into the dozen of diversional programs, trying to give them hope of a better future – while talking tough and vowing to lock up the ones who won't cop the tip. 'Pisanos is a straight shooting kind of cop who shouldn't be underestimated,' one colleague said. 'He's a hard worker and commits to whatever he is tasked. 'History will show the favourites in the past haven't taken out the prize so he shouldn't be written-off. Webb certainly wasn't the favourite, nor was Fuller.' In the contest to become commissioner, history indicates that the frontrunner isn't always guaranteed success. Ken Moroney, Andrew Scipione, and Mick Fuller all ascended over more favoured deputy commissioners. Ms Webb was no exception. And lesser known assistant commissioners should not be written off. Mr Cotter, now head of Professional Standards, was left to face the media in 2023 after the tasering of 95-year-old grandmother Clare Nowland. Police were heavily criticised for not mentioning the 'taser' in initial media releases. Mr Cotter was the one to confirm to journalists that Ms Nowland had a serrated steak knife in a small treatment room when she moved slowly towards officers and was tasered. 'She had a walking frame but she had a knife,' he said. Mr Cotter also acted as in the position of Commissioner of the NSW Crime Commission in 2018 and was southern region commander as well as having worked in homicide investigations and is known for his work in victims' services. Mr Smith is the former principal of Goulburn Police Academy and heads the State Intelligence Command. His quest for the top job has surprised many. He joined the NSW Police Force in 1989, enjoying a successful and diverse career for over 30 years. 'We're a very professional organisation where we recognise professional qualifications, experience and knowledge,' Assistant Commissioner Smith told Police Insight in 2022. 'How you present yourself, your experience, and your qualifications goes a long way in being able to convey yourself and our organisation as a professional one.' Whoever takes the top job can expect to be thrust into the media spotlight instantaneously and how they convey themselves will be paramount to their success in one of the most challenging roles in the country. While Ms Webb's representatives claim her resignation was voluntary, numerous police sources suggest the government actively encouraged her departure due to leaks, persistent media criticism, and concerns about her public performance. Her supporters say she never stood a chance, with her detractors, including Mr Lanyon and Mr Willing working against her from day one. 'Whoever gets the job they can expect to be watched closely from day one and if they misstep it won't go unnoticed,' an officer said. What's not lost on the rank and file is the fact there is not a female candidate in sight. 'Wether Karen Webb copped it worse because she is a woman, I guess the record books will show, that's not for me to say, but you can be guaranteed of one thing, no woman will put their hand up any time soon nor will they be considered any time soon,' a senior female officer said. 'I would suggest the powers that be will pick someone who fits the profile of an old school blokey cop. Someone they feel oozes confidence and authority so the public and the media will be on board from day one. 'Whether that's a good thing or a bad thing, I guess time will tell. We will have to watch this space.'
Daily Maverick
15-07-2025
- Daily Maverick
Cash-in-transit ambush weapon linked to Gqeberha gun dealer Karen Webb's business
A revolver used in a deadly cash-in-transit ambush outside a KFC in Sidwell, Gqeberha has allegedly been tied to several firearms reportedly missing from the premises of Gqeberha gun dealer Karen Webb. The weapon forms part of a new murder charge added to her expanding case, which includes allegations of gun smuggling, fraud, and multiple violent crimes. Karen Webb had to wait another day before her formal bail application could begin in the Gqeberha Magistrates' Court after her legal team requested more time to prepare. Meanwhile, new details emerged of the growing number of charges she faces. On Monday, the State brought another murder charge against Webb. It has now emerged that the new murder charge relates to a violent cash-in-transit ambush that took place outside a KFC in Sidwell on Monday morning, 30 December 2024. The guards arrived around 10am at the fast food outlet at the intersection of Commercial Road and Wright Street, in one of the busiest parts of Gqeberha's city centre. Across the road is a bustling taxi rank and several other popular fast food stores, ensuring the area is always a hive of pedestrian activity. The guards arrived as scheduled to collect cash from the KFC, but their duties took a violent turn when they were ambushed by a group of suspected robbers. A shootout ensued. A guard, as well as one of the robbers, was fatally wounded. Police members rushed to the scene, where they quickly apprehended another suspect allegedly hiding in the KFC among staff members. The Hawks quickly took control of the crime scene, where an illegal firearm was recovered. That firearm, a revolver, was eventually linked to a series of firearms that allegedly went missing from Karen Webb's gun dealership. On Monday, this double murder was added to her expansive list of charges, which include another murder and several other counts of theft, fraud, firearms smuggling and providing firearms to people unlicensed to possess them. Webb returned to court on Tuesday, where her formal bail application was set to begin. However, her legal team asked for the matter to be postponed. Her attorney, Peter Daubermann, indicated that he required more time to prepare for the charges added to her case on Monday. Webb has been in custody since her arrest in February 2024, when several firearms belonging to another dealer, but stored at her premises, Webb's Arms, were linked to a series of violent crimes across the country. Webb faces three separate cases before the city's magistrates' court. The first, which court officials branded as the 'main case', relates to the allegations of murder, theft and several firearm-related offences. The second is a theft case in which her ex-husband, Arthur Webb, has accused her of selling his property after their divorce. His property included several household items, including furniture, and it is believed that the case involves about R3-million. The third matter pertains to allegations that Webb was found in possession of a cellphone on two occasions while awaiting trial at the North End prison. All three matters are scheduled to proceed on Wednesday. DM
