Whakatāne Police have now arrested an extra two people in connection with the investigation into the murder of Claude Te Rangiatahua Takao earlier this month.
47-year old Takao, (also known as Mana) of Nukuhou, was located deceased down a bank on Matahi Valley Road on June 1st.
Police have arrested a 31-year-old man for the murder of Takao and is due to appear in Whakatāne District Court today via video link.
A 14-year old was also arrested and charged yesterday with aggravated robbery and kidnapping, and will also appear in Whakatāne Youth Court today.
Police note, a 32-year-old man and a 25-year-old man have previously appeared in Whakatāne District Court in connection with the investigation, charged with two counts of kidnapping and one count of aggravated robbery.
The 25-year-old is due to reappear in Whakatāne District Court today. He will now also face a murder charge.
"We hope these arrests will bring comfort to Mr Takao’s family and reassurance that those who commit serious offences will be held to account, Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Wilson, Eastern Bay of Plenty CIB says.
"This is an active homicide investigation, and we continue to appeal for information,"
"Police remain interested in speaking with anyone with knowledge of what happened." Wilson says.
Police ask anyone who has information that may assist in their investigation to contact Police on 105 or via https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105, using Update Report.
Please reference file number: 230531/6168.
Alternatively, you can report information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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