Reference: Provost Marshal, LHQ Melbourne, 4 October 1945,

"Compilation of Histories by Directorates and Others - NSW L of C Area"

Courtesy RACMP Museum, 2001

In August of this year a Section of LHQ Special Investigation Branch was attached to NSW L of C. Their chief work is the investigation of crime, the arrest of offenders for serious offences outside the scope of normal Provost duties, and inquiries of a secret and confidential nature.

This Section has become very well established and its presence is known to all Commanding Officers. Their work has been outstanding and a credit to all employed on this duty. Hereunder is a short summary of the work of the branch since its inception:

Reports submitted 665

Arrests 103

Civil Courts attended 46

Courts Martial attended 23

Courts of Inquiry 32

Value of property recovered 903, 7 and 9 pounds

With regard to the 103 personnel arrested by SIB during the above period named, 141 charges were laid against them as hereunder:

Manslaughter 1

Assault and Robbery 2

Break Enter and Steal 2

Stealing 62

Receiving 8

Goods in Custody 9

Illegal Possession 6

Grievous Bodily Harm 1

Unlicensed Pistol 1

Forgery 29

False Pretences 7

Illegal Use Military Vehicle 6

Conduct to the Prejudice 3

Losing by Neglect 1

Indecent Language 2

Desertion 2

Through the courtesy of the Commissioner of Police three experienced detectives (one Det-Sergeant and two Det-Constables – returned soldiers) are attached to the Branch, and a very live liaison is maintained with the State Police.

The work of the Branch in connection with the theft of £7000 worth of motor spare parts at Newcastle was outstanding. The whole of the property was recovered. Arrests were made and eight charges laid against the offenders.