Go and get twins' killers, MPs demand

Maori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia

The police were coming under pressure from politicians today to make arrests in the Kahui twins case.

The Maori Affairs Minister joined Maori Party co-leader Dr Pita Sharples and New Zealand First in demanding action.

Three-month-old Mangere twins Chris and Cru Kahui died in Auckland's Starship Children's Hospital ten days ago and police have claimed the family is refusing to reveal what happened.

Maori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia said he was frustrated with the police approach. "I think quite bluntly they've got to go and get 'em," he said.

However, he said he was not telling police how to do their job.

Earlier today Dr Sharples said the police should bring people in for questioning and NZ First MP Ron Mark also called this morning for them to act.

"If those guilty of this horrendous murder are too gutless to come forward, then all those guilty of harbouring them must be arrested now for obstruction of justice," Mr Mark said.

"The stonewalling of the family has gone beyond reasonable or acceptable and has become a national disgrace. What we have is a dysfunctional family perverting the course of justice and it can no longer be tolerated."

However, police said they would not to be forced into charging someone over the deaths. They said the inquiry was continuing and could not be rushed into a result which would not stand up in court.

The investigation was "being built on the collection of solid facts and evidence" and the community could rest assured.

Prime Minister Helen Clark said she supported the police approach. "I believe we have to leave it to the police to handle it as they see fit," she said.

"They are very experienced in working in this part of Auckland and with these kinds of families. I believe it is worth backing their approach to try and get to the truth of the matter."

Kahui spokeswoman Ani Hawke said family members were receiving legal advice and would go to the police when "the time is right".

"Due process must take place,'' she said on Newstalk ZB today. "They are not going to be badgered, they are not going to be pushed.''

- NZPA