Police have arrested four people, including a 16-year-old male, over the fatal stabbing of Whakatane man Jamaine Wharton.
In a statement, Whakatane area investigations manager Det Snr Sgt Paul Wilson said two men aged 25 and 20 along with the 16-year-old had been charged with assault with intent to injure, and will appear in court on Friday.
A 42-year-old woman has also been arrested for inciting the assault.
Wharton died after he was stabbed at a 21st birthday party at Waiohau Rugby Clubrooms near Whakatane. The 31-year-old was taken to the Whakatane Hospital in the early hours of Sunday morning where he later died.
"While we are yet to charge anyone with Jamaine's murder, the investigation team - including detectives from the wider Bay of Plenty district - is focused on piecing together the exact movements and actions of those involved in his death," Wilson said.
"They know exactly who they are and we’re committed to holding them to account for Jamaine and his family and friends.
"We would like to thank those people who have come forward with crucial information."
