Two people have been arrested, including a 14-year-old, in relation to the murder of a person who was found dead down a bank in Whakatāne earlier this month.
A murder investigation was launched after Claude Te Rangiatahua Takao, 47, was found dead on June 1.
In an update on Wednesday, police confirmed a 31-year-old and a 14-year-old have been arrested and charged in relation to Takao's murder.
Det Snr Sgt Paul Wilson, of Eastern Bay of Plenty, confirmed a 31-year-old man has been arrested and is due to appear in Whakatāne District Court via video link on Wednesday.
A 14-year-old was also arrested on Tuesday and charged with aggravated robbery and kidnapping.
Two other men, aged 32 and 25 were previously arrested and charged with kidnapping and aggravated robbery. They earlier appeared in Whakatāne District Court in connection with the investigation.
The 25-year-old is due to reappear in Whakatāne District Court on Wednesday and is also facing a murder charge.
Wilson hopes these arrests will bring comfort to Takao’s family and reassurance those who commit serious offences will be held to account.
"This is an active homicide investigation and we continue to appeal for information," Wilson said.
He said police remain interested in speaking with anyone with knowledge of what happened.
"Anyone who has information that may assist [the] police in our investigation is asked 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."
