Third murder accused pleads not guilty

Police are still investigating the murder of 36-year-old Levin man Palmiro MacDonald. Photo: SUPPLIED

The third person accused of murdering Levin man Palmiro George MacDonald has pleaded not guilty.

William Maaky Oj Hines, 41, appeared in the Palmerston North High Court this morning.
He was remanded in custody to re-appear in November for a case review.

The two other murder accused, a 28-year-old whose name is suppressed and 27-year-old Chea Paratene Charles Brattle-Hemara, have also pleaded not guilty.
All three are set to face trial in April next year.

MacDonald's remains were found in the foothills of the Mangahao Dam behind Shannon last October.

The Nomad associate was the subject of an extensive police investigation after going missing on March 23 last year.

In a statement after Mr Hines' arrest, police said they remained focused on the case, dubbed Operation Palm, and were committed to finding answers for his loved ones.

"This further arrest is a credit to the dedicated investigation team who have worked tirelessly over the past year-and-a-half. We would like to thank the members of the community who contacted police and provided information which assisted with our inquiry."

Police are still encouraging anyone with information relating to the case, dubbed Operation Palm, to call 0800 OP PALM or pass their information on anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 677 256.