Media Release

15 June 2006

New Zealand Soldier Hit by ‘Dart’ in Dili

Around 5p.m Dili time, Wednesday 14 June 2006, a NZ soldier suffered a superficial leg wound from a dart fired by a youth while out on a routine patrol in Hera, a small community near Timor Leste’s nation capital.

The dart which struck the soldier in the thigh had been fired at the New Zealanders as they dispersed a group of around 20 youths who had congregated.

The soldier was treated by a medical officer before returning to his platoon. Approximately seven youths have been detained as a result of the incident.

“Its business as normal” says Lieutenant Colonel Jeremy Harker, NZ Senior National Officer in Dili. “Our soldiers are trained for operations of this nature. This was a minor incident and the soldier concerned will be back on patrol within the next 24 hours”

ENDS

© Scoop Media

Trial Over 'Anonymous' Donations: John Banks Resigns As Minister

ACT Leader John Banks today confirmed that he has stood down from his Ministerial positions following today’s decision at the Auckland District Court.

“Last week I indicated to the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff that I would offer my resignation should the matter relating to my 2010 Mayoral Electoral return be committed to trial,” Mr Banks said...

“I intend to continue in my role as ACT Leader and MP for Epsom, and ACT will continue to support National on matters of confidence and supply. More>>