Police make steady progress in axe attack investigation

Photo / File

Police say they have received a number of calls since information was released of an axe attack on two Korean fishermen at Ti Point Wharf early on Wednesday.

Yesterday police told media how the Korean pair were fishing when one went back to the car to have a sleep.

He was woken by knocking on the window. He recognised the man as one of the pair he had just seen fishing nearby.

The man, holding a small axe, demanded the victim's keys and wallet, which he handed over.

Despite complying, the victim was punched, assaulted with the axe and knocked unconscious.

During the assault the victim's friend heard the commotion and came to his aid.
He was assaulted by both the offender and a second man, punched in the head and face and fell into a bush.

Today police said they were making steady progress in the investigation.

Following yesterday's media release, police received a number of calls with information from members of the public and were now able to provide an updated description of the offenders, including a distinctive car they are believed to have been travelling in.

Based on information received over the past 24 hours, Police are looking for two men described as caucasian, aged in their 30s and of average build.

Police said reports suggested the two men had a young dog with them, possibly a red-nose Pitbull.

They were thought to have been driving a dark-red Ford Falcon station wagon, with windows that may have been tinted.

Police also believe that the offenders may have been at the Leigh Wharf on the afternoon of Tuesday March 31.

Detective Constable Jackson Shewry said police want to hear from anyone who was the Ti Point Wharf or Leigh Wharf on Tuesday or early Wednesday morning.

"Thank you to the public, particularly the Leigh community, for your help so far," Mr Shewry said.

"We're continuing to work through all information provided to us and as this is an ongoing investigation we're mindful not to compromise the enquiry by discussing certain aspects any further at this point in time, but we continue to appeal to anyone with information to make contact with us."

Anyone with information can contact Detective Constable Shewry on 09 213 8079.

Information can also be given anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.