Three people died on New Year's Eve due to a Honolulu fireworks explosion. Photo: Hawaii Governor Josh Green Facebook
Hawai'i - fireworks amnesty
Hundreds of pounds of illegal fireworks were turned in to Hawai'i state officials over the weekend.
The amnesty event was aimed at lowering the amount of illegal fireworks on the island following the deadly fireworks explosion on New Year's Eve.
Four people died in the explosion, and six others with severe burn injuries were flown to the US mainland for further treatment.
The Department of Law Enforcement called the event a big success because everything that was turned in is no longer on the streets or in neighboring homes.
The department is planning another fireworks amnesty event for the end of 2025.
Fiji - drugs
Fiji police have indicated a willingness to join forces with the military to tackle the country's soaring drug problem.
FBC reports acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew saying the partnership has proved effective in the past.
Chew said the police have previously worked with the military in challenging situations like arresting armed suspects.
He said the military has already played a role in supporting drug raids in Fiji's highland areas where the police face logistical challenges.
Samoa - sunken New Zealand vessel
The amount of fuel removed from the sunken Manawanui cannot be confirmed until processing is complete.
The NZDF said the final volume of recovered fuel will be clearer after processing and seawater extraction.
NZDF's Commodore Andrew Brown said the recovery phase is making progress despite the impact of adverse weather conditions.
Bad weather in Samoa last week meant the salvor moved the barge from above the Manawanui to Port Apia.
But rough conditions in the harbour prevented safe operations and the tug and barge proceeded back out to sea to seek shelter until the weather improved.
Fiji - Corrections Service Commissioner
The Fiji government has placed its Corrections Service Commissioner on leave following reports of "serious incidents and potential breaches" under his leadership.
A statement from Justice Minister Siromi said the allegations raise significant concerns about the governance, security, conduct, management and administration of the service.
Siromi said the allegations warrant immediate investigation and the commissioner will remain on leave with full entitlements during the inquiry.
The deputy commissioner, Auta Moceisuva will serve as acting commissioner.
Cook Islands - health
The Asian Development Bank has signed a US$2 million grant agreement with the Cook Islands government to boost health screening at the airport.
Cook Islands News reported the Bank saying the money will support upgrades to health screening equipment to be used during public health emergencies, and install additional solar power to support upgraded medical waste treatment and disposal.
The additional financing will also support increased women's participation in technical and vocational training, particularly in the aviation industry.
